Top 5 Video Game Soundtracks That Elevate the Whole Experience
Let’s be real—gaming today isn’t just about smooth gameplay, mind-blowing graphics, or killer boss fights. Music matters. A lot. The right soundtrack turns a good game into a masterpiece. Whether you’re blasting these soundtracks on a Samsung QLED with a full home theater setup, or zoned in with over-ear headphones (btw, here’s my take on the best gaming headphones), this list is all about that next-level immersion.
Here’s my personal top list of best music from video games—based on games I’ve actually played—plus a few honorable mentions that deserve a listen.
1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
🎼 Composer: Lorien Testard
I know, I know—this one’s an obvious first pick if you’ve played it. But Lorien Testard absolutely delivered here. Every fight, every cutscene, every emotional scene had the perfect score behind it. Boss fights feel intense not just because of the gameplay, but because the violins, piano, and orchestra hit right in the soul.
Even the vibe of each character feels scored uniquely. It’s cinematic, powerful, and honestly? Worth adding to your Spotify playlist. This isn’t just music—it’s an emotional rollercoaster in orchestral form. Read full game review here
2. Lies of P
🎼 Composer: Yeakun Yoo
This soulslike gem doesn’t just win for its gameplay—it’s the soundtrack that elevates it. Simon Chylinski blends gothic, haunting melodies with dramatic strings and piano to match the twisted world of Krat.
The music in boss fights like Laxasia and the Nameless Puppet hits different. That mix of Victorian darkness and raw emotion just works. You feel the tension. You become the tension. Read full game review here
3. God of War (2018)
🎼 Composer: Bear McCreary
You can’t talk video game music without shouting out Bear McCreary. That deep, thunderous main theme? Iconic. From the moment Kratos grunts and that low bass kicks in, you know you’re in for a god-tier journey.
This soundtrack bleeds Norse mythology. Choirs, drums, strings—it’s pure cinematic power that makes you feel like you’re walking with gods. Read full game review here
4. Super Mario Bros. (Franchise)
🎼 Composer: Koji Kondo
Old-school vibes, but forever timeless. Koji Kondo created one of the most recognizable themes in video game history. Even today, that bouncy beat still puts a smile on your face. It’s not just nostalgic—it’s foundational.
Whether you’re speed-running or casually platforming, this music is the heart of the Mario universe.
5. Final Fantasy Series
🎼 Main Composer: Nobuo Uematsu (classic titles), Masashi Hamauzu & Others (recent titles)
The Final Fantasy franchise is known for its deep lore and emotional storytelling, but let’s not forget the epic soundtracks. From battle anthems to tearjerking piano pieces, these games have some of the most dynamic scores ever.
Boss fights hit harder when the music swells, and those emotional story beats? Chef’s kiss.
Honorable Mentions
- Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
- Uncharted series
- Journey
- Black Myth: Wukong – This one I have played, and the use of traditional Chinese instruments is insane. Every boss theme feels like it’s ripped straight from folklore. It’s cultural. It’s mystical. It slaps.
Great music can turn a game into a memory. It pulls you in, sets the tone, and keeps you coming back. Whether it’s violin-heavy boss fights or nostalgic platforming beats, these soundtracks prove that gaming is an audio-visual experience—on par with movies and beyond.
Let me know what your favorite gaming soundtrack is. And if you haven’t played Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 yet, I highly recommend it. That game changed the way I experience in-game music forever.