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

BIG BLUEIshida Naoto

F-ZERO Big Blue

From F-ZERO, the foundational racing game on the Super Famicom.

This track, used on the course of the same name, is among the most popular even within the F-ZERO series’ wealth of classic tunes, remembered for the exhilarating feeling that perfectly matches its title.

Metal Gear Solid Main ThemeIwasetappe

Metal Gear Solid Main Theme

A masterpiece that brought out new possibilities for the “stealth game,” this is a track from Metal Gear Solid.

It’s famous as the theme song of the Metal Gear series, which is still being released, and I think it’s a piece remembered by many people.

Opening BGMMasuda Junichi

Pokémon Red/Green Opening BGM

“Pocket Monsters” has grown into one of the most famous game franchises in the world.

This is the piece used in the opening of the prestigious first-generation Pocket Monsters.

It has been arranged many times and used in the latest releases and the anime, making it a representative theme of Pokémon.

Dearly BelovedShimamura Yōko

Kingdom Hearts Dearly Beloved (Original Version)

This piece is a piano track that plays on the title screen of the Kingdom Hearts series and has continued to be loved by fans around the world.

Composed by Yoko Shimomura, it was included on the 2002 album KINGDOM HEARTS Original Soundtrack.

Its gently undulating arpeggios and wistful melody evoke both the anticipation of the adventure to come and the feelings you have for those dear to you.

Across the series, various versions—such as orchestral and jazz arrangements—have been produced, each beautifully expressing the story’s themes of “heart and bonds.” The piece is frequently performed at concerts like KINGDOM HEARTS Orchestra, moving even those who aren’t familiar with the games.

It’s a song that quietly stays by your side when you want to bask in the memories of a nostalgic adventure.

Dr.WILY STAGE 1Tateishi Takashi

Mega Man 2 (NES) Music – Wily Fortress 1

When it comes to legendary chiptune born from the constraints of the Famicom, many people probably think of the Wily Stage BGM included in Mega Man 2: Dr.

Wily’s Revenge.

Composer Takashi Tateishi, who worked on the game’s sound and released it in December 1988, crafted a superb track under strict audio limitations: a lead phrase that blends cool precision with soaring excitement, a surging bassline, and a rhythm brimming with speed—all combining to heighten the player’s sense of anticipation to the fullest.

This piece, which brilliantly captures the tension and sense of achievement of storming the final boss’s fortress, has earned high praise, even ranking near the top in best-of lists by overseas media.

Many players likely had the melody seared into their minds after repeatedly hitting game over on the notoriously difficult stage.

It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to rediscover the charm of retro games.

7/8Umegaki Runa

[BGM] Choro Q 3 – Summer is Night [12/44]

“7/8” is a track from Choro Q3, produced by Tamsoft.

It’s used on the in-game course “Summer is Night,” and even among the highly acclaimed soundtrack of this title, it stands out as one of the most popular pieces.

Saria’s SongKoji Kondo

[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time] Saria's Song - Orchestral Arrangement

In The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, this is the song taught to the protagonist, Link, by his childhood friend Saria when he sets out from his birthplace, the Kokiri Forest.

It often serves as a recurring theme throughout the Zelda series, and it is a piece filled with Saria’s warm kindness and heartfelt feelings.