Meaningful Video Game Soundscapes

Whenever I think retrospectively about memorable video games their catchy sounds and tunes always infiltrate my ears. Think Zelda's found treasure theme... Did you hear it?

I believe music has the ability to transcend visual stimuli and reach us on a personal level like no other art form. For no other reason, but to satisfy my nostalgic auditory nerve (and hopefully yours), here are my five favourite video game soundtracks – follow the links and perk up those ears.

-Chrono Trigger-  



The tick tick of Chrono's intro clock has resonated with me since I first played this masterpiece RPG back in mid-90s. You'll shift through time carried by a melodic ebb of mystical tapestry of sound. Mysterious, peculiar and delightful.

-Mega Man X- 

 

I'll remember this game's rip-rolling intro tune until the outskirts of time. Every stage has its own signature sound. Many Mega Man games came prior, but the music in this one blasts them all away. Speedy and engaging.

-Castlevania: SOTN-



The uniqueness of this game's soundtrack eclipses many lesser sonatas. Delightfully evil. The variety and quality of this instrumental masterpiece is mystical. Inside Dracula's Castle a passionate concerto resides; leeching on lesser minds.

-Xenogears-

Xenogears is a very thematic game. Its soundtrack will encompass your senses, pulling you further into the infinity of this JRPG Mechopera. Fully orchestrated, dynamic and bold, this one needs to be heard. A total outer journey.
    
-Guilty Gear- 



The entire Guilty Gear series is known for its edgy Heavy Metal infused arrangements. This game started it all. When I first heard this game's music, I thought a livid Japanese band invaded my room through the speakers. Hyper melodic headbanger!
 
 I'll close with this: Great video game music has an exceptional ability to pull gamers further into imaginary digital worlds. The best soundtracks allow our memories to linger amongst the notes, recalling places we've been before or want to visit. Enjoy for all time, all the time.