Best Game Soundtracks On The Nintendo Music App

As a gamer who’s spent countless hours exploring virtual worlds and immersing myself in their captivating soundscapes, I must say that these top 10 video game soundtracks are nothing short of a symphony of emotions. Each melody transports you to different realms, evoking feelings of adventure, tranquility, excitement, and even nostalgia.

The surprise unveiling of the Nintendo Music app has given fans the long-awaited chance to stream some of the best video game soundtracks ever made, as well as bespoke playlists. The selection of game music, which the company says it will be adding to in the coming months, spans decades and covers every system from the Famicom all the way to the Switch.

Prominent games such as Mario and Zelda are included, along with some lesser-known picks for variety, like music from Nintendo’s cherished Wii console. The selection is vast, so to simplify things, here’s a list ranking the top soundtracks now accessible through the app.

8 Dr. Mario

These Frenzied Tunes Are Just What The Doctor Ordered

8 tracks
13 minutes
Game released 1990

Dr. Mario was Nintendo’s innovative approach to the ‘block-dropping’ puzzle genre that gained massive popularity through Tetris. In this game, Mario assumed a medical role by launching colored capsules, which the player needed to strategically arrange to eliminate harmful viruses. What made this game stand out is that it was simultaneously released on both NES and Game Boy systems.

The music for this game was generously supplied by Hirokazu ‘Hip’ Tanaka, a renowned composer known for creating tunes for influential games like Super Mario Land and Metroid. His melodies perfectly match the playful, fast-paced action happening on screen. Despite being relatively brief, spanning just 13 minutes, it offers an enchanting trip down memory lane with its nostalgic chiptune vibes.

7 Super Mario Bros.

This Iconic Offering Will Make Fans Jump For Joy

16 tracks
10
Game released 1985

In 1985, the landscape of video gaming was drastically altered with the introduction of “Super Mario Bros.” This groundbreaking game not only catapulted its manufacturer to unprecedented heights but also introduced the world to their new console, initially known as the Family Computer (or Famicom), and later rebranded as the Nintendo Entertainment System outside Japan.

Over time, these melodies have been reworked, reshaped, and completely transformed by numerous listeners, yet they continue to captivate listeners even after many years. From the instantly recognizable “Ground BGM” to the dance of the underwater level, Koji Kondo’s compositions stand as the benchmark for catchy video game tunes.

6 Wii Channels

A Welcome Reminder Of The Wii’s Quirky Charm

62 tracks
2 hours 14 minutes
Console released 2006

Nintendo’s Wii rewrote the video game industry guidelines in various innovative ways. It managed to surpass its competition with ease, despite being less powerful, and introduced a unique type of controller. However, it also boasted an impressive library of melodies that played as users navigated through the console’s various channels.

The relaxing background melodies found here, such as those from the peaceful Wii Menu and adorable Mii Plaza themes, are not only suitable for enhancing your gaming experience but could also serve independently as calming or focusing music for listeners. These tunes can create a serene atmosphere even when no game is in sight.

5 Donkey Kong Country

The Big Ape Gets A Great Selection Of Tunes

26 tracks
44 minutes
Game released 1994

The original release of Donkey Kong Country drew quite a few surprised looks due to its advanced graphics, engaging platform gameplay, and the transformation of Donkey Kong into a main character. Over time, however, it has earned praise for its exceptional soundtrack, which is now widely recognized as one of the best in the industry.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but share my enthusiasm for some less-discussed gems in the soundtrack of “DK Island Swing.” While “DK Island Swing” is undeniably popular among us fans, tracks like the techno-funk infused “Funky’s Fugue” and the underwater level’s serene anthem “Aquatic Ambiance” truly steal the show. These tunes possess a calming vibe that would seamlessly fit into any laid-back playlist, making them standouts in their own right.

4 Super Mario Galaxy

A Cosmic, Cinematic Spectacular

81 tracks
2 hours 6 minutes
Game released 2007

In the thrilling game titled “Super Mario Galaxy“, Mario embarked on a journey towards the stars. This remarkable game elevated our beloved plumber from earthbound tasks to cosmic adventures, offering players one of the most exceptional gaming experiences ever crafted. The grandeur of the game was amplified by the innovative choice to compose an original, fully orchestrated soundtrack.

The tracks here boast plenty of bombasts, from the mighty “Enter The Galaxy” to the climactic “Bowser Battle.” There is also room for some softer moments like “Luma” and the gentle, sublime “Rosalina In The Observatory 3,” a waltz that feels reminiscent of scenes from 2001: A Space Odyssey.

3 The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time

A Legendary Game Has A Soundtrack Without Equal

82 tracks
1 hour 15 minutes
Game released 1998

The innovative approach Nintendo took with “Ocarina of Time” significantly rejuvenated the Zelda series by transitioning it into 3D. Additionally, the fresh tunes incorporated in the game captivated audiences so deeply that there are now live performances and modern remixes specifically dedicated to the music from the game.

Listening to “Title Theme” triggers memories of galloping Link through Hyrule on his horse, and the soundtrack beautifully guides you through this game’s most memorable scenes, such as the victorious melody that accompanies Link traversing Hyrule Field. A nostalgic journey and a testament to the artistry in video game music.

2 Animal Crossing: New Horizons

As Soothing As a Hot Drink And A Big Hug

407 tracks
12 hours 12 minutes
Game released 2020

Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a comforting gaming adventure that has relaxed countless players since its release. It lacks deadlines and tension, instead providing a beautiful realm populated by peculiar villagers and an ever-growing list of sights to behold, activities to engage in, items to gather, and mysteries to uncover. The game’s music plays a crucial role in creating this deeply calming experience.

Just like the Wii Channels soundtrack, you don’t require a video game to fully appreciate its audio offerings. The entire experience spans an impressive 12 hours (a “Top Tracks” playlist condenses this to a more convenient 2 hours), and the music captures every aspect of life on the island.

1 The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild

An Epic Experience Which Befits A Masterpiece

For years following its debut, the video game The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild continues to amaze players with its ability to evoke strong emotions and provide a wealth of content. Few games have successfully delivered an open-world experience that matches its reputation, but this game’s playground certainly deserves such high praise.

A significant portion of what made earlier Zelda games successful was reimagined in this release, particularly the music. The soft, unassuming themes for the overworld are captivating, and the more complex pieces like the enchanting theme for towns such as Hateno Village leave a lasting impression. Few video game soundtracks can be called flawless, but this is certainly one of them.

2024-11-11 14:55