Best Video Game Soundtracks

Although video games are often remembered for their stunning graphics and powerful narratives, original soundtracks play a huge role in building that all-important immersion. It’s no wonder that awards like The Game Awards have categories just to honor games with the best music.

In this article, you’ll find 15 of the most impactful original game soundtracks. Just like the Grammys, we only considered scores that were specifically composed for these games—so franchises like GTA, Need for Speed, and Tony Hawk, which use licensed music, aren’t included. The same goes for rhythm games like Guitar Hero, Rock Band, and Project Diva. Is your favorite on the list? Read to the end and find out!

1. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

Released for PlayStation in 1997, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night redefined the Metroidvania genre. In a game called “Symphony of the Night,” the music has a natural spotlight.

Michiru Yamane blended classical, metal, jazz, and rock to capture the gothic vibe of Dracula’s castle. The diverse styles match the different areas of the game, making everything feel connected. Musicians still study this soundtrack today, with many calling it one of the most ambitious of the ’90s.

2. Persona 5

Persona 5, released in 2016, is a modern RPG that blends social simulation and action. One of its biggest highlights is how its stylish soundtrack shapes the whole experience.

Composer Shoji Meguro fused jazz, acid house, and pop with English lyrics sung by Lyn Inaizumi. Tracks like “Life Will Change” and “Last Surprise” became instant anthems. The soundtrack doesn’t just play during action—it amplifies the Phantom Thieves’ rebellious spirit. Plenty of fans listen to it outside the game, like it’s an album all on its own.

3. Devil May Cry 5

Devil May Cry 5 is truly a visual and sonic spectacle. Released in 2019, Capcom brought back beloved characters with a banging score.

Kota Suzuki led the music team, which built dynamic tracks that shift based on how well you fight. The music gets more intense as you play better, boosting that feeling of power and control. “Devil Trigger,” sung by Ali Edwards, is now Nero’s anthem and super popular at e-sports events, videos, and fan tributes.

4. DOOM (2016)

The DOOM (2016) soundtrack by Mick Gordon is pure sonic mayhem, filled with heavy riffs and wild synths. It doesn’t just follow the action—it sets that chaotic, relentless pace.

A wild fact: Mick used chainsaw sounds digitally modified to sound like distorted guitars. The impact was so huge, the soundtrack developed a cult following, with live concerts and metal tribute albums. DOOM just wouldn’t hit the same without this brutal score.

5. Cuphead

Cuphead is straight-up a tribute to the cartoons of the 1930s, and the soundtrack absolutely nails that vintage mood. Composed by Kristofer Maddigan, the OST features over 50 jazz, ragtime, swing, and big band tracks.

Recorded with a full orchestra, the music gives the game’s visuals some serious authenticity. The soundtrack earned Cuphead awards like the BAFTA for Best Music and global critical acclaim. The music keeps you going—even for those super tough levels.

6. Donkey Kong Country 2

Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest is famous for both its tight gameplay and its emotionally charged soundtrack. David Wise composed pieces ranging from light-hearted to deeply introspective, with “Stickerbush Symphony” taking the spotlight.

That particular track is a landmark for video game soundtracks—melodic, atmospheric, and emotionally engaging. This was one of the first games to show music could be contemplative, touching players on a deeper level.

7. Pokémon

From the start, Pokémon has been the definition of nostalgic vibes. Junichi Masuda created tracks that generations of players will never forget. Battle themes, city tunes, and route music are all part of the series’ identity.

Lavender Town is the perfect example of emotion in music. Its eerie melody sparked countless theories and remixes, and the franchise’s music has evolved while always staying true to its classic roots.

8. Silent Hill 2

Released in 2001, Silent Hill 2’s soundtrack is proof that horror game music is real art. Akira Yamaoka put together an experimental OST mixing noise, classical, and industrial influences.

Songs like “Theme of Laura” are loved way outside the game, even performed at concerts and studied by music pros. Yamaoka’s soundscape brings out anxiety, sadness, and raw psychological terror—a rare and powerful mix.

9. Zelda: Ocarina of Time

The Ocarina of Time soundtrack, composed by Koji Kondo, is iconic in gaming history. Each area in Hyrule gets its own musical identity. Plus, playing music on your ocarina was core to the gameplay.

Songs like “Zelda’s Lullaby” and “Song of Storms” keep coming back in the franchise. Orchestral albums based on this score keep Zelda at the top when it comes to game music.

10. Super Mario Galaxy

Super Mario Galaxy took Mario’s musical game to the next level. It was the series’ first time with a full symphonic orchestra. The idea came from Koji Kondo, who wanted Mario to sound “larger than life.”

Mahito Yokota came up with epic tracks like “Gusty Garden Galaxy,” which became instant favorites. The combo of orchestral score and space setting makes the experience truly magical—even years later.

11. Chrono Trigger

Chrono Trigger is a classic Square RPG, and its soundtrack is one major reason fans love it. Yasunori Mitsuda, with help from Nobuo Uematsu, created a score mixing folk, epic, and emotional melodies.

“Corridors of Time” is a fan favorite. Mitsuda got so into his work he fell sick, so Uematsu helped him finish. All that passion paid off: Chrono Trigger’s soundtrack is viewed as a masterpiece.

12. Hollow Knight

The Hollow Knight soundtrack by Christopher Larkin is a shining example of how music can power a game’s entire mood. Using somber piano and strings, Larkin paints an emotional backdrop for the silent hero’s journey.

In a devastated underground world, the music pushes you between hope and loss. The main theme, “Greenpath,” became a fan anthem. It even got a vinyl release and live shows.

13. Top Gear

Top Gear was a big part of the ‘90s on SNES, and its music by Barry Leitch was just as memorable. The soundtrack is upbeat, with catchy tunes that stick in your head.

“Las Vegas” became so iconic, Brazilian fans especially link it to their childhoods. The score influenced future racers, like Horizon Chase (which Barry also worked on). It’s a lasting musical legacy.

14. Minecraft

Minecraft’s soundtrack, by Daniel Rosenfeld (C418), is the ultimate example of “less is more.” Minimalist tracks accompany all those quiet hours spent building and exploring.

Songs like “Sweden” and “Mice on Venus” are delicate, introspective, and poetic. The OST was released on vinyl and landed on specialist best-of-the-year lists. It’s not just background music—it transcends gameplay itself.

15. Nier: Automata

Wrapping up the list, Nier: Automata serves up an innovative and deeply emotional soundtrack. Keiichi Okabe led a team that made multiple versions of each track to fit every situation in the game.

Songs like “Weight of the World” and “Amusement Park” set the mood for the ruined world and boost the game’s existential storytelling. Lyrics are in made-up languages, adding a dreamy, almost universal feeling.

Conclusion

Soundtracks in games do way more than just sit in the background. They create moods, build emotions, and often become the most memorable part of a game. The 15 listed here set the standard, influenced generations, and proved that game music is true art.

More on this topic at: Best Video Game Soundtracks | IE Games