Recommended video game music: compelling masterpieces and popular tracks you’ll want to listen to.

Birdman ChallengeIwata Yasuaki

Minigame – Parasail (The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild OST)

This piece brilliantly captures the exhilarating feeling of gliding through the open sky.

It features a lively rhythm and bright melody, with an adventurous sound that leaves a strong impression.

Included on the 2018 album “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Original Soundtrack,” it serves as the BGM for the in-game mini-game “Bird-Man Research Study.” Many tracks on the album were recorded with live orchestral performance, and Yasuaki Iwata’s delicate sound design truly shines here.

Used in-game when flying with the Paraglider, it’s the perfect track for when you want to feel fresh and free.

Like a flower that blooms with dignified graceasaki

As a Flower Blooming with Dignity – Pop’n Music 15 ADVENTURE

A popular track included in all versions of pm15 ADVENTURE.

The sequence of Japanese-style scales and pounding beats and riffs feels great.

The refrain after the chorus is irresistible.

It’s as if you can see a scene where a cool breeze gently traces the nape of a refined Japanese beauty.

Millennial Fair of the Kingdom of GuardiaMitsuda Yasunori

Millennial Fair of the Kingdom of Guardia

Among the pieces composed by Yasunori Mitsuda for Chrono Trigger, this is a particularly memorable track.

Its bright, pop-tinged melody vividly captures the lively atmosphere of a festival.

The rhythmic groove makes you want to get up and dance, gripping players’ hearts and never letting go.

Released in 1995, it remains a beloved classic of video game music for many fans.

An orchestral arrangement was later produced, transforming it into an even more grandiose musical experience.

It’s recommended not only for game enthusiasts, but also for anyone looking for something upbeat and energizing.

To the wide worldsugiyama kouichi

[15-Minute Endurance] To the Vast World - Dragon Quest VIII (BGM)

The background music that plays when you walk across the vast, fully explorable 360-degree field in Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King is one of the most beloved tracks in the series.

Its quietly opening melody evokes the hero’s very first step into an unknown world.

From there, the layers of sound gradually build, giving you the sensation that the endless horizon and grand scenery are unfolding before your eyes.

Even without lyrics, it conveys a clear sense of anticipation for the adventure to come.

Koichi Sugiyama himself reportedly called it “one of my best works,” which further speaks to the game’s high level of polish.

Hateno VillageIwata Yasuaki

[15-Minute Endurance] Hateno Village - The Legend of Zelda: BotW (BGM)

This is a piece themed around Hateno Village from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

Composed by Yasuaki Iwata, the track is characterized by a structure in which the number of sounds increases as the village develops.

It begins with a simple melody, and as the village grows, the music becomes richer.

Centered on a gentle piano tone, it beautifully conveys the village’s peaceful atmosphere.

It’s included on The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Original Soundtrack, released in April 2018, and has been highly praised by fans.

Listening to it lets you immerse yourself in the game’s world while experiencing a soothing, almost mysterious sense of calm.

It’s recommended not only for those who have played the game, but also for anyone seeking relaxing music.

Battle 1Uematsu Nobuo

Granblue Fantasy – Battle 1

Granblue Fantasy is developed by Cygames, a company that produces mobile game apps, and it became a huge hit after the catchphrase “Grabu tteru?” from its commercials became a hot topic.

The game’s music, which accompanies its grand unfolding story, is composed by Nobuo Uematsu, famed for his work on the Final Fantasy series, and this particular track plays during battle scenes.

Its combination of intense tempo and sweeping melody heightens the tension of combat while drawing players in with its beauty.

Characterized by irregular time signatures and key changes influenced by progressive rock and classical music, it offers an immersive experience that makes you feel as if you’re fighting in a fantasy world yourself.

Rallying Cry! The Imperial Assault ForceYokoyama Chisa & Teikoku Kagekidan

Sakura Wars Theme Song “Geki! Teikoku Kagekidan” [FULL]

This is the theme song that opens Sakura Wars, Sega’s masterpiece of adventure.

To protect the imperial capital of Tokyo, the secretive Imperial Combat Revue: Flower Division was formed.

This top-tier classic of the Sakura Wars series defined their image, and many people have likely heard it in commercials and elsewhere.