menu
HomeEntertainmentVideo Game SoundtrackBest Orchestral Video Game Soundtracks

Best Orchestral Video Game Soundtracks

Video game soundtracks have evolved significantly, with orchestral compositions gaining prominence due to their ability to enhance emotional depth and immersion in gameplay. These soundtracks often feature rich instrumentation and dynamic arrangements, creating memorable auditory experiences that resonate with players long after they put down the controller.

Advertisement

Some of the best orchestral video game soundtracks showcase the artistry of composers who craft themes that are not only fitting for the game's narrative but also stand alone as musical pieces. Iconic examples include the sweeping scores of franchises like "Final Fantasy," where Nobuo Uematsu’s compositions blend classical influences with innovative melodies, creating a profound connection to the game's characters and story arcs. Similarly, the "The Legend of Zelda" series, particularly with "Breath of the Wild," employs orchestral elements to evoke a sense of adventure and exploration. Other noteworthy soundtracks include "Skyrim," with Jeremy Soule’s epic score that enhances the vast landscapes of Tamriel, and "Journey," whose music by Austin Wintory beautifully complements its visual storytelling. These soundtracks not only elevate gameplay but also stand as remarkable achievements in contemporary orchestral music.

  • The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
    The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

    The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time - Hero Link battles evil to save Hyrule and Princess Zelda.

    View All
  • Final Fantasy VII
    Final Fantasy VII

    Final Fantasy VII - Epic RPG about heroes battling against a powerful corporation.

    View All
  • Journey
    Journey

    Journey - An adventure of self-discovery and exploration.

    View All
  • Nier: Automata
    Nier: Automata

    Nier: Automata - Philosophical action RPG exploring androids and existential themes.

    View All
  • Shadow of the Colossus
    Shadow of the Colossus

    Shadow of the Colossus - Epic journey to defeat giants and revive a loved one.

    View All
  • Final Fantasy X
    Final Fantasy X

    Final Fantasy X - Epic journey of love, sacrifice, and overcoming destiny.

    View All
  • Ori and the Blind Forest
    Ori and the Blind Forest

    Ori and the Blind Forest - A heartfelt platformer about love, sacrifice, and adventure.

    View All
  • Hollow Knight
    Hollow Knight

    Hollow Knight - Challenging action-adventure game set in a mysterious insect kingdom.

    View All
  • God of War (2018)
    God of War (2018)

    God of War (2018) - Father-son journey through Norse mythology and epic battles.

    View All
  • The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
    The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

    The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - Open-world RPG with dragons, quests, and vast exploration.

    View All

Best Orchestral Video Game Soundtracks

1.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

less
"The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" is an iconic action-adventure video game released by Nintendo in 1998. Set in the fantasy land of Hyrule, players control Link, a young hero tasked with thwarting the evil plans of Ganondorf, who seeks the powerful Triforce. The game introduces innovative 3D gameplay and real-time combat, as well as puzzles and exploration elements. Players use the Ocarina, a magical musical instrument, to manipulate time and influence the world around them. Celebrated for its storytelling, gameplay mechanics, and immersive world, it remains a cornerstone of gaming history.

Pros

  • pros Innovative gameplay
  • pros captivating story
  • pros memorable music.

Cons

  • consDated graphics
  • cons occasional pacing issues
  • cons challenging controls for newcomers.
View All

2.

Final Fantasy VII

less
Final Fantasy VII is a critically acclaimed role-playing game developed by Square (now Square Enix) and released in 1997 for the PlayStation. Set in a dystopian world, the story follows Cloud Strife, a mercenary who joins the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE to combat the oppressive Shinra Electric Power Company, which exploits the planet's resources. The narrative intertwines themes of identity, friendship, and environmentalism, featuring memorable characters like Tifa, Aerith, and Sephiroth. With its groundbreaking 3D graphics, engaging turn-based combat, and an iconic soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu, it remains a landmark in gaming history.

Pros

  • pros Iconic story
  • pros memorable characters
  • pros innovative gameplay.

Cons

  • consGraphics age poorly
  • cons pacing issues
  • cons some mechanics feel outdated.
View All

3.

Journey

less
"Journey" is a critically acclaimed video game developed by Thatgamecompany, released in 2012. It offers players a unique, emotional experience as they explore a vast, beautifully crafted desert landscape. Players control a robed figure on a quest to reach the summit of a distant mountain, encountering various challenges and other travelers along the way. The game emphasizes exploration and cooperation without traditional dialogue, relying on visual storytelling and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. Its innovative design and profound themes of connection and perseverance have made "Journey" a landmark title in the gaming industry.

Pros

  • pros Engaging storytelling
  • pros immersive visuals.

Cons

  • consCan be short
  • cons may lack replay value for some players.
View All

4.

Nier: Automata

less
"Nier: Automata" is an action role-playing game developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix. Set in a post-apocalyptic Earth, players control androids 2B, 9S, and A2 as they battle alien machines to reclaim the planet for humanity. The game features a rich narrative that explores themes of existentialism, the nature of consciousness, and the morality of warfare. Its engaging combat mechanics, stunning visuals, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack enhance the immersive experience. With multiple endings and a thought-provoking storyline, "Nier: Automata" has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

Pros

  • pros Deep narrative
  • pros stunning visuals
  • pros innovative gameplay.

Cons

  • consComplex story may confuse
  • cons some combat may feel repetitive.
View All

5.

Shadow of the Colossus

less
"Shadow of the Colossus" is an action-adventure game developed by Team Ico and released for the PlayStation 2 in 2005. Players control Wander, a young hero who ventures into a vast, mysterious land to revive a girl named Mono. To achieve this, he must defeat sixteen colossal beings known as Colossi, each presenting unique challenges and puzzles. The game's striking visuals, atmospheric sound design, and minimalist storytelling create an emotional experience exploring themes of sacrifice, love, and the consequences of ambition. It has received critical acclaim and is considered a masterpiece in gaming history.

Pros

  • pros Stunning visuals
  • pros emotional storytelling
  • pros unique gameplay.

Cons

  • consSparse world
  • cons minimal dialogue
  • cons some may find combat repetitive.
View All

6.

Final Fantasy X

less
Final Fantasy X is a role-playing video game developed by Square (now Square Enix) and released in 2001 for the PlayStation 2. It follows the journey of Tidus, a young athlete who is transported to the mystical world of Spira after a monstrous creature called Sin destroys his home. Joined by Yuna, a summoner on a pilgrimage to defeat Sin, and a diverse cast of companions, Tidus embarks on a quest filled with emotional depth, stunning visuals, and a turn-based combat system. The game is notable for its rich storytelling and innovative voice acting.

Pros

  • pros Engaging story
  • pros memorable characters
  • pros beautiful visuals.

Cons

  • consTurn-based combat may feel slow
  • cons linear gameplay.
View All

7.

Ori and the Blind Forest

less
**Ori and the Blind Forest** is a visually stunning platformer developed by Moon Studios, featuring a captivating story centered around Ori, a small guardian spirit. Set in the enchanting forest of Nibel, players embark on a heartfelt journey to save the dying forest after a series of catastrophic events. The game combines intricate puzzle-solving, fluid movement mechanics, and emotionally resonant storytelling. With its hand-painted artwork, orchestral score, and challenging gameplay, Ori and the Blind Forest offers a memorable experience that explores themes of sacrifice, friendship, and the beauty of nature.

Pros

  • pros Stunning visuals
  • pros emotional storytelling
  • pros engaging gameplay

Cons

  • consbacktracking
  • cons can be frustrating for some players
View All

8.

Hollow Knight

less
*Hollow Knight* is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game developed by Team Cherry. Set in the hauntingly beautiful, hand-drawn world of Hallownest, players control a silent, insect-like knight on a quest to uncover the mysteries of a fallen kingdom. The game features intricate platforming, challenging combat, and a rich lore that unfolds through exploration and encounters with unique characters. With its atmospheric soundtrack, stunning visuals, and deep gameplay mechanics, *Hollow Knight* offers an immersive experience that has captivated players and garnered a dedicated fanbase since its release in 2017.

Pros

  • pros Stunning art
  • pros deep lore
  • pros challenging gameplay

Cons

  • consDifficult for newcomers
  • cons some backtracking
  • cons minor bugs
View All

9.

God of War (2018)

less
"God of War" (2018) revitalizes the iconic franchise, shifting its focus from Greek mythology to Norse mythology. The game follows Kratos, now a father, as he embarks on a journey with his young son, Atreus, to fulfill the final wish of his deceased wife: to scatter her ashes from the highest peak in the realms. The narrative explores themes of fatherhood, loss, and redemption, while the gameplay features a more strategic combat system, an open-world environment, and stunning visuals, delivering a deeply emotional and immersive experience for players.

Pros

  • pros Engaging story
  • pros stunning visuals
  • pros deep character development.

Cons

  • consSlow pacing
  • cons limited RPG elements
  • cons some repetitive combat.
View All

10.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

less
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an open-world action RPG developed by Bethesda Game Studios. Released in 2011, the game immerses players in the vast, richly detailed province of Skyrim, where they assume the role of the Dragonborn, a hero destined to confront the ancient dragon Alduin. Players can explore diverse landscapes, engage in quests, and develop skills through a flexible character progression system. With an engaging narrative, deep lore, and a vibrant community, Skyrim has become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its modding potential and enduring gameplay experience.

Pros

  • pros Immersive world
  • pros rich lore
  • pros extensive modding community.

Cons

  • consBugs
  • cons repetitive quests
  • cons dated graphics compared to newer titles.
View All

Similar Topic You Might Be Interested In