The 30 Best Video Game Soundtracks Of All Time

Music is an integral part of video gaming, a crucial element that can transform a player’s experience from passively interactive to immersive head-bopping. It has the power to set the tone, narrative, and elicit emotions. Whether it’s the tension of a boss fight, the thrill of a high-speed chase, or the melancholy of a poignant moment, video games can do it all.

Over the years, game music has evolved from the simple, catchy loops of 8-bit tunes to full-blown orchestral scores, showcasing the incredible talent of composers who breathe life into these pixelated and computer-generated worlds.

From humble arcade beginning in 1975 with ‘Gun Fight’, this is often credited as the game with the very first original soundtrack; a simple series of monophonic tunes. Since then, video game soundtracks have grown in sophistication and complexity, leveraging technological advancements to deliver rich, atmospheric experiences.

These iconic soundtracks underscore the importance of music in video games, each offering a unique aural journey that has left an indelible mark on the hearts of players worldwide. From the whimsical tunes of ‘Katamari Damacy’ to the haunting melodies of ‘Everybody’s Gone To The Rapture’, these compositions stand as a testament to the artistic depth and creative brilliance of video game music.

As a quick heads up, the options below are in no particular order and we’ve chosen the best one from each game series. Of course, if we’ve missed one of your favourites, let us know in the comments below!

Journey

Composer: Austin Wintory

Journey’s soundtrack is renowned for its lush orchestration that is deeply integrated into the game’s mechanics and storytelling. The music dynamically adjusts to player actions, creating an individualized experience that transcends traditional gameplay.

Its ability to provoke profound emotional reactions from players makes it one of the most iconic video game soundtracks to date. And for those who have played this excellent game, the soundtrack evokes all those same feelings again and again.

Iconic Tracks: “Apotheosis”, “I Was Born For This”, “Threshold”, “The Road of Trials”

Persona 5

Composer: Shoji Meguro

You’ll never see it coming but Persona 5’s soundtrack is as stylish as the game itself. The iconic OST offers a unique fusion of acid jazz, rock, electronica, and traditional Japanese music that complements its modern, urban setting perfectly.

Meguro’s composition stands out in the gaming industry due to its bold, genre-blending approach, and it perfectly encapsulates the game’s rebellious themes and vibrant aesthetic.

Iconic Tracks: “Last Surprise”, “Rivers in the Desert”, “Beneath the Mask”, “Life Will Change”

Final Fantasy VII

Composer: Nobuo Uematsu

Final Fantasy VII’s score is legendary and recognized as one of the most significant in video game history, thanks in large part to Uematsu’s genius. His orchestral and electronic hybrid compositions give emotional depth to the characters and settings, making the narrative even more compelling.

The soundtrack stands as a hallmark of video game music, and while the remake does a good job of updating some of the compositions with a more epic orchestral flavour, the original midi themes just cannot be beaten, and it should be celebrated accordingly.

Iconic Tracks: “One-Winged Angel”, “Aerith’s Theme”, “Main Theme of Final Fantasy VII”, “Tifa’s Theme”

Cuphead

Composer: Kristofer Maddigan

The soundtrack for Cuphead is remarkable for its authentic interpretation of 1930’s jazz and big band music. The lively, energetic tracks match the aesthetic and action-packed gameplay perfectly, capturing the essence of vintage cartoons. The energetic tunes and the detail in each composition has made this soundtrack a favorite among many gamers.

Iconic Tracks: “Floral Fury”, “Die House”, “Inkwell Isle One”, “Carnival Kerfuffle”

NieR:Automata

Composer: Keiichi Okabe, Keigo Hoashi

The soundtrack of NieR:Automata is often hailed as a masterpiece – and for good reason. The excellent fusion of classical elements, haunting vocals, and electronic sounds beautifully mirrors the game’s post-apocalyptic setting and philosophical themes. The music intensifies the emotional weight of the story too, making it an integral part of the game’s experience.

Iconic Tracks: “Weight of the World”, “City Ruins (Rays of Light)”, “Bipolar Nightmare”, “A Beautiful Song”

Shadow of the Colossus

Composer: Kow Otani

Kow Otani’s score for Shadow of the Colossus is renowned for its grand orchestral pieces that perfectly convey the game’s epic scale and emotional depth. The soundtrack, with its blend of powerful tracks and softer, melancholic tunes, mirrors the narrative of pursuing monstrous creatures in a desolate world.

Iconic Tracks: “The Opened Way”, “Revived Power”, “A Despair-filled Farewell”, “The End of the Battle”

The Last of Us

Composer: Gustavo Santaolalla

The Last of Us features a haunting, minimalist score by Gustavo Santaolalla, a renowned film composer. His use of unconventional instruments, like the ronroco, along with his effective use of silence, creates an atmospheric and moody soundtrack that complements the game’s post-apocalyptic setting so well. In fact, Gustavo’s main theme is almost entirely untouched for the serial adaptation too, which speaks volumes about the quality and excellent seen in this score.

Iconic Tracks: “The Last of Us (Main Theme)”, “The Path (A New Beginning)”, “Left Behind (Together)”, “All Gone (No Escape)”

Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture

Composer: Jessica Curry

Curry’s soundtrack for Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture is known for its ethereal beauty. The score combines simple chord structures with goosebump-inducing choral elements, creating a profound sense of melancholy and loss that matches the game’s exploration of connection and isolation in a world on the brink of an apocalypse.

Iconic Tracks: “All the Earth”, “Finding the Pattern”, “The Mourning Tree”, “Liquid Light”

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

Composer: Koji Kondo

Ocarina of Time’s music, crafted by Koji Kondo, is integral to the game’s experience. The score features memorable melodies that are often associated with specific characters or locations in the game world. The fact that music itself is an essential mechanic in the game, played on the titular Ocarina, contributes to the soundtrack’s iconic status.

Iconic Tracks: “Zelda’s Lullaby”, “Song of Storms”, “Gerudo Valley”, “Lost Woods”

Kingdom Hearts

Composer: Yoko Shimomura

The Kingdom Hearts series features music composed by Yoko Shimomura, whose mix of original tracks and Disney song reinterpretations create a diverse and memorable score. Although the second and third games have their own stand-out tracks, it’s the original that really takes the crown here. From sweeping orchestral themes and heartfelt melodies perfectly complement the game’s themes of friendship, love, and adventure.

Iconic Tracks: “Dearly Beloved”, “Simple and Clean – PLANITb Remix”, “Simple and Clean”

Silent Hill 2

Composer: Akira Yamaoka

Akira Yamaoka’s score for Silent Hill 2 is as unsettling as it is iconic. Known for its industrial sounds, haunting melodies, and its eerie use of silence, this is arguably the best horror game soundtrack of all time. The score’s dark ambience and immersive qualities set a high bar for horror soundtracks.

Iconic Tracks: “Theme of Laura”, “Promise”, “True”, “White Noiz”

Super Mario Bros (1985)

Composer: Koji Kondo

Super Mario Bros. is among the most iconic video games of all time, and its music, composed by Koji Kondo, is a major reason for its ongoing popularity. The chiptune tracks are recognizable to everyone – even those who aren’t Mario fans! They’ve simply become synonymous with the franchise. These catchy, upbeat melodies perfectly capture the game’s spirit of fun and adventure.

Iconic Tracks: “Overworld Theme”, “Underground Theme”, “Castle Theme”, “Ending Theme”

No Man’s Sky

Composer: 65daysofstatic

No Man’s Sky’s soundtrack, by 65daysofstatic, is a dynamic, electronic post-rock soundscape that beautifully complements the game’s space exploration theme. The mix of synthesized and organic sounds adds to the game’s vastness, mystery, and the sense of wonder. The way the first two tracks on the soundtrack – Monolith and Supermoon – is also a fantastic way of switching keys and tone in a very organic way.

Iconic Tracks: “Supermoon”, “Monolith”, “Asimov”, “Red Parallax”

God of War (2018)

Composer: Bear McCreary

Bear McCreary’s score for God of War is a grand, Nordic-inspired epic that greatly enhances the game’s immersive setting and narrative. Combining orchestral arrangements, tribal percussion, and Nordic folk instruments, the music resonates with the game’s themes of paternal bonds and exploration.

Iconic Tracks: “God of War”, “Memories of Mother”, “Ashes”, “Witch of the Woods”

Chrono Trigger

Composer: Yasunori Mitsuda, Nobuo Uematsu

Chrono Trigger’s soundtrack, mainly composed by Yasunori Mitsuda with some contributions from Nobuo Uematsu, is widely praised for its innovative use of leitmotifs. The evocative melodies and diverse musical style, corresponding to the game’s different time periods, has left a lasting impact on gamers the world over. There’s absolutely no question that this has helped contribute to the overall success of a game that remains one of the best RPGs of all time.

Iconic Tracks: “Chrono’s Theme”, “Frog’s Theme”, “Wind Scene”, “Corridors of Time”

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Composer: Jeremy Soule

Skyrim’s soundtrack, composed by Jeremy Soule, is revered for its atmospheric and immersive quality. There are some epic orchestral arrangements, that are contrasted by low-key haunting choral pieces. Almost every track on the soundtrack contributes significantly to the epic fantasy setting. The soundtrack has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the ragged beauty of Skyrim, making it a fan favorite.

Iconic Tracks: “Dragonborn”, “Far Horizons”, “The City Gates”, “Ancient Stones”

DOOM (2016)

Composer: Mick Gordon

DOOM’s soundtrack is renowned for its aggressive, high-energy fusion of electronica and metal, reflecting the game’s intense, demon-slaying action to perfection. Mick Gordon’s innovative use of synthesizers, combining that with heavy guitar riffs, has led to one of the most iconic modern game soundtracks.

Iconic Tracks: “Rip & Tear”, “BFG Division”, “Hellwalker”, “At DOOM’s Gate”

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Composer: Marcin Przybyłowicz, Percival

The Witcher 3 soundtrack, created by Marcin Przybyłowicz and the band Percival, stands out for its blend of traditional Slavic music, folk elements, and modern composition techniques. This musical blend sets the perfect tone for the game’s expansive, narrative-driven fantasy world, and actually doubles up as a great soundscape for the book series too. This is easily one of the best soundtracks of all time and certainly deserves a spot on this list.

Iconic Tracks: “…Steel For Humans”, “Geralt of Rivia”, “Silver for Monsters”, “The Trail”

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

Composer: Greg Edmonson

Greg Edmonson’s music for Uncharted 3 carries an adventurous spirit that matches the thrilling treasure-hunting journey of the game’s protagonist, Nathan Drake. The mix of orchestral elements with global musical influences and stylings helps to establish the exotic locations and high-stakes moments the game is known for.

More so than the other soundtracks, Uncharted 3 manages to use this blend of melancholy and more action-packed tracks, all whilst giving a distinct Middle Eastern flavour that helps the game stand out.

Iconic Tracks: “Nate’s Theme 3.0”, “The Setup”, “Atlantis of the Sands”, “Marlowe, I presume?”

Undertale

Composer: Toby Fox

Undertale’s soundtrack is praised for its catchy melodies and eclectic range of musical styles, from chiptune to jazz. These tracks are integral to the unique charm of this game, reinforcing its quirky characters, heartfelt moments, and surprising twists.

Iconic Tracks: “Megalovania”, “Death by Glamour”, “Hopes and Dreams”, “Battle Against a True Hero”

Death Stranding

Composer: Ludvig Forssell

Ludvig Forssell’s score for Death Stranding is a haunting and atmospheric soundscape that compliments the game’s post-apocalyptic world. Its blend of electronic and orchestral elements, along with its beautiful themes, mirrors the game’s exploration of connection and isolation. There’s a lot of Low Roar on here too, which blends so well with the instrumental score, managing to echo those aforementioned themes.

Iconic Tracks: “BB’s Theme”, “Bones – Low Roar”, “Bridges”, “Death Stranding – Chvrches”

Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Composer: Gareth Coker

Gareth Coker’s music for Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a beautiful score and it really does enhance the emotional depth and immersive world of the game. The ethereal nature of the tracks, evocative melodies, and dynamic orchestration underscores the game’s narrative of hope, sacrifice, and the bond between friends.

Iconic Tracks: “Main Theme”, “Separated by the Storm”, “Ku’s First Flight”, “Escaping a Foul Presence”

Ghost of Tsushima

Composer: Ilan Eshkeri, Shigeru Umebayashi

Ghost of Tsushima’s soundtrack, crafted by Ilan Eshkeri and Shigeru Umebayashi, brings the game’s historical setting to life beautifully. The use of traditional Japanese instrumentation and epic orchestral tunes blends together in such a unique way, managing to embody our protagonist’s journey as a samurai and a stealthy ghost to perfection.

Iconic Tracks: “The Way of the Ghost”, “Jin Sakai”, “The Last of Clan Adachi”, “The Tale of Sensei Ishikawa”

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2

Various Artists

When it comes to iconic soundtracks, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is an absolute must. The skating soundscape features a curated selection of punk, rock, and hip hop from various artists that’s almost pitch perfect across the board.

The game’s energetic and rebellious soundtrack was pivotal in introducing many players to these genres too, and as mentioned previously, complements the game’s fast-paced, trick-filled skateboarding to perfection.

Iconic Tracks: “Guerrilla Radio – Rage Against the Machine, “When Worlds Collide – Powerman 5000”, “Bring The Noise – Public Enemy”, “Blood Brothers – Papa Roach”

Minecraft

Composer: C418 (Daniel Rosenfeld)

Minecraft’s minimalist music, composed by C418, is as iconic as the game itself and ultimately shows how crucial music can be to a game’s success. The ambient soundtrack, with its soothing melodies, is incredibly immersive for players off travelling the game’s vast, open world. The score encapsulates the game’s core themes of creativity and exploration in such a wonderful way and deserves to be celebrated.

Iconic Tracks: “Sweden”, “Minecraft”, “Subwoofer Lullaby”, “Wet Hands”

Tetris

Composer: Hirokazu Tanaka

The original Game Boy version of Tetris features an unforgettable rendition of a Russian folk song “Korobeiniki”, composed by Hirokazu Tanaka. Known as “Type A” in the game, the catchy chiptune track has become synonymous with Tetris, enhancing the game’s fast-paced, block-dropping gameplay. It may be simple, but it’s undoubtedly iconic!

Iconic Tracks: “Type A (Korobeiniki)”, “Type B”, “Type C”, “Game Over”

Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

Various Artists

The soundtracks for every Grand Theft Auto after GTA 3 have been excellent and narrowing just one down is very difficult. San Andreas or GTA 4 could very easily have taken the crown here. In the end though, GTA: Vice City, boasting an exhaustive collection of licensed tracks from various artists, captures the spirit and culture of the 1980’s to perfection.

The in-game radio stations add such a depth and authenticity to its fictional recreation of Miami that oftentimes you’ll find yourself just sitting in the car listening to tunes as traffic passes you by.

Iconic Tracks: “I Ran (So Far Away) – A Flock of Seagulls”, “Billie Jean – Michael Jackson”, “Summer Madness – Kool & The Gang”, “Video Killed The Radio Star – The Buggles”

Katamari Damacy

Composer: Yuu Miyake, Asuka Sakai, Akitaka Tohyama, Hideki Tobeta, Yoshihito Yano, Yuri Misumi

Katamari Damacy’s soundtrack is iconic for its unique and eclectic mix of styles, ranging from jazz to samba to J-pop. The catchy upbeat tracks, combined with quirky lyrics, capture the whimsical, and surreal nature of the game, making for a truly memorable audio experience.

Iconic Tracks: “Katamari Nah-Nah”, “Lonely Rolling Star”, “Que Sera Sera”, “Katamari on the Rocks”

Pokémon Red & Blue

Composer: Junichi Masuda

The Pokémon Red & Blue soundtracks, composed by Junichi Masuda, have become beloved fixtures in the world of video game music. The tracks are recognized by millions of fans, evoking nostalgia and capturing the essence of the Pokémon world beautifully. The catchy and distinct themes for different locations and battles have stood the test of time for many gamers.

Iconic Tracks: “Pokémon Theme”, “Pokémon Center”, “Battle! (Trainer Battle)”, “Pokémon Gym”

Need for Speed: Underground 2

Various Artists

Need for Speed: Underground 2 features a diverse soundtrack of licensed music from various artists. Like Tony Hawk’s 2, NFS: Underground 2 is regarded as having one of the best licensed soundtracks of any game and it’s easy to see why. The collection of hip-hop, rock, electronic, and metal adds to the intensity and adrenaline of high-speed street racing.

Iconic Tracks: “Riders On The Storm (Fredwreck Remix) – The Doors ft. Snoop Dogg”, “Black Betty – Spiderbait”, “Get Low – Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz”, “Lean Back – Terror Squad”

So there we have it! Our picks for the top 30 gaming soundtracks of all time! Do you agree with our picks? Have we missed out one of your favourites? Let us know in the comments below!