The Symbiosis of Games and Music

Video games soundtracks shaped the music scene for a generation

Whenever we discuss video games and their ratings, players and critics argue over what is the most crucial aspect of the experience. Some will argue that gameplay and gaming mechanics are the essential aspects of a video game; others will say that graphics and plot are more important.

There is no single magical ingredient, of course; all of the components listed here are important for a great gaming experience. A delicate balance between these elements will give players the ultimate experience.

But what about music? What role does a game’s soundtrack play in your enjoyment of the experience? It’s not just a question of catchy music; it’s about being drawn further into the world thanks to a well-executed soundtrack.

Video game soundtracks come in many varieties, but fundamentally, they can be either original or licensed. In many big-budget games, a team of composers, supervisors, and directors will work closely with developers and publishers to develop the right soundtrack for the game. There have been many cases where soundtracks themselves became iconic gaming memories — nobody could forget Koji Kondo’s classic Super Mario Bros. theme, for example.