Best Video Game Soundtracks
Video game soundtracks play a crucial role in enhancing the gaming experience, immersing players in the game’s world and emotions. From orchestral scores to electronic beats, these soundtracks capture the essence of the gameplay and often evoke powerful feelings that resonate long after the game is over. Iconic soundtracks can elevate a game to legendary status, becoming an integral part of its identity.
Advertisement
Among the best video game soundtracks, titles like "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time," "Final Fantasy VII," and "Halo" stand out for their memorable compositions. The work of composers like Koji Kondo and Nobuo Uematsu has defined entire genres, creating melodies that players hum long after they’ve put down the controller. More recent games, such as "The Last of Us" and "Celeste," have also received acclaim for their atmospheric scores that perfectly complement the narrative and gameplay. The rise of indie games has further diversified the soundscape, with unique styles and innovative approaches to music that enhance storytelling. Overall, these soundtracks not only serve as a backdrop for gameplay but also become cherished pieces of art that contribute significantly to the cultural landscape of gaming.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of TimeView AllThe Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time - Hero Link battles evil to save Hyrule and Princess Zelda.
Final Fantasy VIIView AllFinal Fantasy VII - Epic RPG about heroes battling against a powerful corporation.
JourneyView AllJourney - An adventure of self-discovery and exploration.
Halo: Combat EvolvedView AllHalo: Combat Evolved - Sci-fi shooter featuring Master Chief battling alien forces.
Chrono TriggerView AllChrono Trigger - Timeless RPG with time travel and unforgettable characters.
Nier: AutomataView AllNier: Automata - Philosophical action RPG exploring androids and existential themes.
Red Dead Redemption 2View AllRed Dead Redemption 2 - Wild west adventure with outlaws and gunslingers.
CelesteView AllCeleste - Celeste: ethereal, serene, celestial beauty, enchanting presence, luminous spirit.
The Last of UsView AllThe Last of Us - Post-apocalyptic survival, love, and human resilience against infected.
Dark Souls.View AllDark Souls. - Challenging action RPG set in a dark, interconnected world.
Best Video Game Soundtracks
1.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
"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
Innovative gameplay- captivating story
- memorable music.
Cons
Dated graphics- occasional pacing issues
- challenging controls for newcomers.
2.
Final Fantasy VII
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
- Iconic story
- memorable characters
- innovative gameplay.
Cons
- Graphics age poorly
- pacing issues
- some mechanics feel outdated.
3.
Journey
"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
- Engaging storytelling
- immersive visuals.
Cons
- Can be short
- may lack replay value for some players.
4.
Halo: Combat Evolved
"Halo: Combat Evolved," released in 2001, is a groundbreaking first-person shooter developed by Bungie and published by Microsoft for the Xbox and PC. Set in a science fiction universe, players assume the role of Master Chief, a super-soldier fighting against the alien Covenant. The game features a rich narrative, engaging multiplayer modes, and innovative gameplay mechanics, including vehicle combat and cooperative play. Its iconic weapons and memorable characters, like the AI Cortana, helped establish "Halo" as a cornerstone of gaming culture, influencing numerous sequels and a dedicated fanbase.
Pros
- Innovative gameplay
- engaging story
- iconic multiplayer.
Cons
- Limited graphics by today’s standards
- repetitive level design
- AI can be inconsistent.
5.
Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger is a classic role-playing game developed by Square (now Square Enix) and released in 1995 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Renowned for its innovative gameplay, it features a time-traveling storyline that allows players to explore various eras, from prehistoric times to a dystopian future. Players control a group of characters, including the hero Crono, as they attempt to prevent a global catastrophe. The game is celebrated for its engaging story, memorable characters, multiple endings, and a unique Active Time Battle system, making it a beloved title in the RPG genre.
Pros
- Engaging story
- memorable characters
- innovative time travel mechanics
Cons
- feel dated
- some encounters could be repetitive
6.
Nier: Automata
"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
- Deep narrative
- stunning visuals
- innovative gameplay.
Cons
- Complex story may confuse
- some combat may feel repetitive.
7.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 is an action-adventure game set in the American Wild West in 1899. Players take on the role of Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as they navigate a changing world and struggle to survive in a harsh landscape. The game features a vast open world with stunning graphics, immersive gameplay, and a deep and emotional storyline. Players can engage in a variety of activities, from hunting and fishing to robbing trains and engaging in shootouts. It is a critically acclaimed game known for its realism and attention to detail.
Pros
- Stunning graphics
- immersive open world
- compelling story.
Cons
- Slow pacing
- complex controls
- occasional glitches.
8.
Celeste
Celeste is a captivating and ethereal character often associated with the sky and celestial bodies. Her name, which means "heavenly" in Latin, embodies a sense of wonder and tranquility. Celeste is typically depicted as a gentle, nurturing figure, radiating warmth and positivity. She may be portrayed as an artist or dreamer, inspired by the stars and the beauty of the universe. Her personality reflects a deep appreciation for nature and harmony, making her a beloved muse for creatives and an emblem of hope and inspiration for those who seek solace in the cosmos.
Pros
- Engaging gameplay
- beautiful art
- strong narrative
- mental health themes
Cons
- Challenging difficulty
- frustrating for some players
- niche appeal
9.
The Last of Us
"The Last of Us" is a critically acclaimed action-adventure video game developed by Naughty Dog, released in 2013. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal infection that transforms humans into aggressive creatures, the story follows Joel, a hardened survivor, and Ellie, a young girl who may hold the key to humanity's survival. Their journey across a devastated United States explores themes of love, loss, and morality as they face both infected and hostile human factions. The game is renowned for its emotional storytelling, rich character development, and immersive gameplay.
Pros
- Engaging storytelling
- rich character development
- emotional depth.
Cons
- Pacing issues
- violence may be off-putting
- some gameplay mechanics can feel repetitive.
10.
Dark Souls.
Dark Souls is an action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware, known for its challenging gameplay and intricate world design. Set in a dark, medieval fantasy universe, players explore interconnected environments filled with formidable enemies, powerful bosses, and hidden secrets. The game emphasizes strategic combat, requiring careful timing and resource management, as death is a common occurrence. With its deep lore, atmospheric storytelling, and distinctive multiplayer elements, Dark Souls has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is often hailed as a benchmark for difficulty and depth in video gaming.
Pros
- challenging gameplay
- rich lore
- immersive world.
Cons
- steep difficulty curve
- punishing mechanics
- can feel frustrating for new players.