Music has a way of stirring up emotions within humans in an explainable and spiritual manner. Musical scores whether in films, video games or television series can create quite strong an emotional impact on the listener. Atmosphere, attachment and depth are created through appropriate soundtracks and that is why scores are such an integral part of video games. With that being said here’s my recommended list of video game soundtracks, in no particular order, that I believe every video game music lover should check out.
Scott Pilgrim vs The World: The Game – developed by the likes of Anamanaguchi, the original video game soundtrack is quirky, fun and inspiring. The classic ‘chiptune’ approach to the game gives it a vintage vibe while bits of drum and guitar thrown into the mix create a cool contemporary feel to it. The score will make you feel like you can battle evil ‘exes’.
Final Fantasy VII – One of my personal favourites, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, the original soundtrack grips you from beginning to end. Unique and atmospheric, the score caters to almost every element of emotion the player feels. Changes in tempo progress with the game, ranging from calming and melodic to unsettling and dystopian. It is distinctly different from previous scores of the franchise but that is what gives it the quality and effect that it has. Dedication and detail were poured into the creation of this soundtrack and it can be clearly heard in the vast array of melodies that form it.
Undertale – So everyone and their mothers have heard of the successful indie game Undertale, created by Toby Fox. For me, what contribute to its success are the soundtrack and its use of chiptune to create a distinct atmosphere at each section of the game. Each character, setting and gameplay has its own track and each track stirs up a different emotion. Reminiscent of classic arcade scores, Fox had developed the music in vastly creative ways. Each track will remind you of your experience with the game, characters or places long after you’ve completed the game.
World of Warcraft – Arranged by the likes of Jason Hayes, Tracy W. Bush, Derek Duke and Glenn Stafford, this soundtrack contains scores of epic proportions. It alludes to the sounds previous Warcraft games with a distinct focus on Warcraft III. Heart pounding, inspiring and heroic all describe both the games and the accompanying soundtrack. Capturing the beauty of fantasy-based music, the soundtrack will transport any listener to a time of magic and war. The atmosphere is captured masterfully through the soundtrack and listening to it while doing anything is a sure way to become inspired.
Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time – Orchestrated by Koji Kondo, the Zelda soundtrack is a long time praised and considered one of gaming’s best soundtracks. The music is simply crafted but atmospherically transcending. Inspired mainly by theme, the soundtrack plays more than a background role. It embellishes a nostalgic atmosphere of passed games while also incorporating something distinctly unique. The soundtrack, much like the game, tested video game standards at the time of its inception and has set the standard for impactful video game soundtracks. Its string based, orchestral atmosphere will leave you with a sense of wonder and appreciation.
Destiny – One of the video game industry’s newest addition, the Destiny score has proven that contemporary gaming can achieve the success experienced by the classics. The grandiose theme, emotional influence and perfect execution are all elements that the composer, Martin O’Donnell brings to the soundtrack. Accredited with the likes of Paul McCartney, Michael Salvatori and C. Paul Johnson, it’s no wonder why the soundtrack is as magnificent as it is. Heavily based on the game’s themes and ideas, it captures the essence of Destiny and no doubt contributes to the terrific game play that this title has been praised for.
The Last of Us – As one of the most moving games I’ve ever played, it’s no wonder the soundtrack is equally as heart wrenching. Composed by Gustavo Santaolalla, the score is understated and melodic, much like the game itself. It creates a contemplative atmosphere and unlike many of the soundtracks on this list, its success lies in its quiet reflective nature. The soundtrack encourages the player to think and contemplate the decisions that they have to make throughout the game. It’s one of the most moving soundtracks that I’ve ever heard and compliments the game perfectly.
So that’s my list. Do you agree with my choices? Are there any other video game soundtracks you would like me to listen to? Let me know in the comments!
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