Over the years we all have experienced a lot of epic and memorable songs in the realm of video games. Without music, our most cherished moments would only be a sliver of their full potential. The music in video games is a puppeteer pulling on the strings of our emotions, making the hatred we feel for the villain all the stronger, and the lover for the hero more personal. I have chosen to leave out some of the more obvious 'famous' songs for more personal choices.
1.) Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island - Baby Bowser’s Theme
The second phase of the Baby Bowser fight in Yoshi’s Island is by far one of the most epic moments in the Super Mario franchise. The shrieking synth guitar sets the mood perfectly for this boss battle; eerie and evil. Then the song explodes into a thrashing heavy metal jam. There’s nothing quite as epic as heavy metal jam during a gigantic boss battle.
2.) Final Fantasy IX - You’re Not Alone
A truly heart-wrenching moment in the Final Fantasy franchise. After Zidane learns that he is only made to destroy, he falls into a major depression. Questioning himself and the friendships he has made, he is determined to finish the story alone. The choir that comes in halfway through the song is the powerhouse effect, which is guaranteed to send chills down your spine.
3.) Megaman 2 - Dr Wily Stage 1
The Megaman franchise is loaded with amazing theme songs and memorable enemies. But when you finally reach the first stage of Dr. Wily’s fortress, Capcom decided to bring their best. Very few themes have the inspirational impact as this theme does, it’s like an E-Tank for your will power.
4.) Super Metroid - Brinstar Depths
Very few themes in video games are as atmospheric and memorable as Super Metroid’s “Brinstar Depths” Exploring through the depths with this theme playing truly brings the alien world to life. Everything about this theme song is near perfection from the piano riff to the synth “Ah’s” Every instrument brings a new level of depth to this masterpiece.
5.) Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow - Bloody Tears
Although bloody tears first appeared in Castlevania II for the NES, the remake of the song for Dawn Of Sorrow is by far the best iteration. The gothic and symphonic elements that were in the original song shine through in this version. This upbeat track has one of the most memorable piano riff’s in the history of video games.
6.) The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time - Hyrule Field Theme
For some gamers this is the theme song of their childhood. Not only is Ocarina of Time one of the best Legend Of Zelda games of all time, it also has the best soundtrack in the franchise. The sweeping string section, the steady march of the snare drum, and the blasting horns makes this one of the most recognizable themes in video games.
7.) Killer Instinct - Main Theme
Very few fighting games have a strong and memorable soundtrack like Killer Instinct does. There is a lot of really good songs in Killer Instinct but the main theme has the most raw power to it. The heavily distorted guitars with the atmospheric synth keyboards bring a unique sound that is easily recognized by any fan of the fighting genre.
9.) Sonic 2 - Chemical Plant Zone Theme
Many would suggest the “Green Hill Zone” Theme from the original Sonic, but there is something extremely catchy about the Chemical Plant Zone theme. From the upbeat feel of the song, to the tidal wave of keyboard riffs. Although both themes are highly memorable, I feel this one is just a bit better.
9.) Earthworm Jim - New Junk City Theme
Composed by the legendary Tommy Tallarico, it should come as no surprise that one of his games made it on the list. With its atmospheric synth keyboards, gallop-like bass riff, and progressive song elements. New Junk City is an instant classic among gamers young and old alike.
10.) Hotline Miami - Miami
Some of you might say that Hotline Miami seems a bit out of place on this list, and to a degree you're right. But to be completely honest, I feel that Hotline Miami has one of the best and most memorable soundtracks of any game in the past ten years. The simple yet constant repetition of the main riff, followed by the thumping bass and drums makes this song one of the most instantly recognizable video game themes in recent times.
