Video game soundtracks are often one of the most overlooked aspects of a video game, but they can be truly spectacular when done right. If you’re looking to find some new music to listen to, why not try out some of the best video game soundtracks of all time? Here are the top 10 best video game soundtracks ever in our opinion at Duck Blogs.
Number 10: Rayman Origins
The soundtrack to Rayman Origins is a collection of classical music that holds true to its 2D roots. Nostalgic and beautiful, Ubisoft did not disappoint with their first foray into a true platformer on home consoles in quite some time. The game was given high praise by critics upon release. Unfortunately, it was quickly forgotten in favor of newer titles. However, while many have moved on from Rayman Origins, it has aged gracefully and can still be found at many retailers today.
Number 9: Super Mario Bros. 3
If you played video games in your youth, chances are Super Mario Bros. 3 was a game that occupied some of your time. Released for Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1988, Super Mario Bros. 3 was one of the best-selling video games at its release and still continues to sell today through re-releases, including on Wii U’s Virtual Console service. Aside from its undeniable legacy as a pillar of gaming history, Super Mario Bros.
Number 8: Grand Theft Auto V
Grand Theft Auto V is rated an 8 out of 10 by The New York Times. Its soundtrack features a wide variety of genres from rock to hip-hop and house music, allowing players to go on epic mixtapes with their game character, Franklin. His trailer park anthem Rockstar sets the tone for this exciting action-packed thriller. For a much more tranquil drive through town try the R&B song Summertime which also has some features from Jorja Smith who sang on Drake’s latest album Scorpion.
Number 7: Portal 2
The soundtrack to Portal 2 has a darker, more mysterious tone than most video game soundtracks. Its composer, The National’s lead singer Matt Berninger, is said to have drawn inspiration from horror movies when creating these ominous music pieces. One reason that soundtracks are such an integral part of video games is that they can create an added sense of immersion.
Number 6: Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag
Among so many pirate games and movies, there is something special about Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag. The game’s score was composed by Brian Tyler and Michael Klein. The music fits well with everything that happens in the game, whether it be a fight on a ship or exploring in one of many islands. It is an intense soundtrack that puts you into reality when you hear it, which makes it one of my favorites.
Number 5: Bioshock Infinite
Bioshock Infinite is an action-adventure game set in a floating city in the sky. It is a spiritual successor to its predecessors and one of my favorite video games. The soundtrack to Bioshock Infinite is done by many artists including, but not limited to: Jim Bonney, Jim Faudree, Garry Schyman, and Will Rockwell-Scott. I have seen many people call it one of their favorite soundtracks ever so I had to include it on my list.
Number 4: Halo
The Halo series has made a huge impact on first-person shooters since it debuted on Microsoft’s original Xbox. The first game, Combat Evolved, helped define what a console shooter could and should be like—and its score is among video games’ most memorable for its epic themes that provide some much-needed background to saving humanity from an alien threat. Composer Martin O’Donnell may have left the franchise after four entries in the series, but his soundscape lives on through those who followed in his footsteps.
Number 3: Mass Effect 2
If you’re looking for a game that exemplifies what interactive storytelling is all about, look no further than Mass Effect 2. The sequel to one of 2007’s biggest gaming hits, Mass Effect 2 features an epic story and brilliant voice acting that grips you from beginning to end. Couple that with an amazing soundtrack and you have an unforgettable experience. Composed by the illustrious Clint Mansell (whose previous work includes Black Swan and Requiem for a Dream), Mass Effect 2’s score is alternately haunting and heart-pounding. Drawing on influences as diverse as Tool, Massive Attack, Portishead, Philip Glass, Hans Zimmer, Ennio Morricone, and Brian Eno the music beautifully captures the wonder of exploration while managing to convey both sadness and dread when needed.
Number 2 – Ocarina of Time/ Twilight Princess (tie)
Both games feature an original score by Koji Kondo, and they’re truly memorable. No other songs in any other game come close to being as catchy or powerful as Kakariko Village and Princess Zelda’s Lullaby. Epona’s Song is arguably one of those earworms you have stuck in your head for days after hearing it once. So are Saria’s Song and Goron City’s Theme. I don’t know what it is about these melodies that make them so addicting but they’ve all been stuck in my head since I was a kid. The opening theme also deserves a mention because no other piece captures the grandeur of Hyrule like this one does with its breathtaking orchestra and choir.
And Finally, #1- Final Fantasy VII
I’m about to tell you why Final Fantasy VII is my favorite video game soundtrack of all time. Ready? It was simple. The Final Fantasy series had not reached its full potential yet, so when it came out, I had very low expectations for a new addition to such a loved franchise (there are still some FF games that I haven’t finished). What made Final Fantasy VII so great was its ability to weave real emotions into an interactive experience. From the moment the music starts and Aerith’s Theme begins to play as Cloud walks through the slums, players feel invested in the narrative. There are moments in this game where players can’t help but weep, simply because they understand what Aerith meant to Cloud and vice versa.