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

Sea StageIshikawa Jun

[BGM Commentary] Sea Stage (Kirby’s Dream Land 3)

This is a song used in Kirby Super Star.

It’s first heard during the in-game scenario Revenge of Meta Knight, and while it retains Kirby’s signature whimsical vibe, it also matches perfectly with the ocean motif of the stage.

This feeling…sugiyama kouichi

These feelings... Dragon Quest VIII

A beautiful melody that seems to give voice to the characters’ unspoken feelings in a pivotal scene from Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King.

It opens with a plaintive harp line, then gradually adds strings and woodwinds to delicately portray subtle shifts in emotion, building to a grand orchestration at the climax.

Even without lyrics, you can sense the complex emotions—deep sorrow, poignancy, and the strong will that lies beneath.

It’s a perfect piece for a quiet night when you want to calm your mind and drift into contemplation.

Pokémon Crystal Version Suicune BattleIchinose Go

Pokémon Crystal Version Suicune Battle BGM

This is a battle theme used in Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal, but it only plays during a battle with a certain Pokémon: Suicune, one of the legendary Pokémon also depicted on Crystal’s package.

Just hearing the song brings back the excitement of encountering it.

The Hero’s Challengesugiyama kouichi

Dragon Quest III Zoma Battle BGM “Hero’s Challenge”

A masterpiece whose powerful orchestral sound seizes the heart.

Composed by Koichi Sugiyama, it was created in 1988 for Dragon Quest III: And into the Legend….

Known as the piece that plays during the final battle where the fate of the world is at stake, its tense development superbly embodies the hero’s fighting spirit.

A landmark track that opened up new possibilities for video game music.

It’s the kind of music that gives you a push when you’re facing a major turning point in life.

Battle! CassiopeiaTaniguchi Teruo

[Pokémon SV] Final Boss Battle [Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Gameplay Video / BGM]

A fierce, fighting-spirit-filled track featuring pounding gabber kicks and distinctive synthesizers.

Composed by Teruo Taniguchi, it appears in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

The song plays during the battle with Team Star’s secret boss, Cassiopeia, and captured the hearts of many players.

It is included on the album Nintendo Switch Pokémon Scarlet and Violet + The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero Super Music Collection.

With its dramatic soundscape, it brilliantly conveys the emotions of a character who, despite their doubts, strives to move forward.

Battle! Team Star BossTaniguchi Teruo

[Pokémon SV] Team Star Boss Battle [Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Gameplay Video / BGM]

This track, with its gripping hard rock sound, symbolizes the rebels of the Paldea region.

Composed by Teruo Taniguchi, it’s featured in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

The fusion of scorching guitar riffs and synths is packed with impact, making it a perfect fit for the tense battles against Team Star bosses.

The situation and the music together really fire you up! Even if you’ve already played, listening might make you want to challenge the Team Star bosses all over again!

Battle 2Shioo Yasunori

[SFC] Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals – Battle #2

From Neverland Company’s hidden masterpiece, Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals.

This RPG puts the fun of dungeons and puzzles front and center, and among its music, this track used in mid-boss battles is especially beloved by gaming enthusiasts.