10 Video Game Music Classics That Still Get Us Pumped
Remember that feeling? You're young, glued to the TV, eyes wide with excitement. The controller's in your hand, and the music... it just gets you. It's not just background noise, it's a force, shaping the whole experience. That's the power of video game music, and these 10 tracks are classics for a reason.
1. "Guile's Theme" - Street Fighter II (1991)
You can't talk about video game music without mentioning this one. It's iconic, instantly recognizable, and still gets your blood pumping just as hard today. It's a perfect blend of cool, laid-back jazz and pure, unadulterated badassery. You know when Guile walks in, you're in for a fight.
2. "Overworld Theme" - Super Mario Bros. (1985)
This is the theme that started it all. It's simple, catchy, and full of joyful energy, reflecting the cheerful world of the Mushroom Kingdom. It's impossible to hear this tune and not instantly be transported back to those 8-bit days.
3. "The Legend of Zelda" - The Legend of Zelda (1986)
This one is a masterclass in creating atmosphere. The melody is hauntingly beautiful, with an epic scope that perfectly captures the feel of Hyrule. It's a piece that sticks with you long after you've stopped playing.
4. "Metal Gear Solid - Main Theme" - Metal Gear Solid (1998)
Okay, this one is a bit of a cheat, because it's not just one track. The whole soundtrack for Metal Gear Solid is legendary. But this main theme, with its eerie synth and unsettling melodies, perfectly captures the game's atmosphere of espionage and paranoia.
5. "Final Fantasy VII - One-Winged Angel" - Final Fantasy VII (1997)
This is a masterpiece of orchestral composition. It's epic, bombastic, and full of soaring melodies, perfectly mirroring the intensity of the final battle. You might be tempted to skip the fight, but don't! This music is truly unforgettable.
6. "Sonic the Hedgehog - Green Hill Zone" - Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
It's hard to resist tapping your foot to this one. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody perfectly match Sonic's fast-paced gameplay. You'll be humming this tune long after you've put the controller down.
7. "Mega Man X - Opening Theme" - Mega Man X (1993)
This theme is a perfect example of how video game music can be used to build anticipation. It starts slow and brooding, but builds to a powerful crescendo, reflecting the game's challenging and epic storyline.
8. "Gerudo Valley" - The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
This track is all about atmosphere. It's a haunting, melancholic melody that perfectly captures the desolate beauty of the Gerudo Desert. It's a perfect example of how music can be used to create a sense of place in a video game.
9. "Tetris Theme" - Tetris (1985)
It's so simple, but so effective. It's a catchy tune that's impossible to get out of your head, and it perfectly reflects the addictive nature of the game. You'll be hearing this one in your dreams for days.
10. "Portal - Still Alive" - Portal (2007)
This song is more than just a catchy tune, it's a powerful message about overcoming adversity. It's a perfect example of how video game music can be used to convey emotion. It's a song you'll be humming long after the credits roll.
These tracks are just a small taste of the incredible music that has been created for video games. They've become timeless classics, proof that video game music can be just as powerful and moving as any other form of music. So next time you're playing a game, take a moment to really listen to the music. You might be surprised at what you hear.