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

Theme Song (Dokodemo Issho Opening Version)Kunikatsu Murayama

[PS] Doko Demo Issyo OP

This is the song that plays on the opening title selection screen of the original PS version of Doko Demo Issyo.

It’s so adorable to watch Toro and the others running around as if they’re playing tag.

Each character has a different running style and speed, so you can keep watching without getting bored.

Dona Nobis PacemSakuraba Motoi

Tales of Destiny 2 OST – Dona Nobis Pacem

Game music is often described as progressive, and among that, this is one of the finest masterpieces by Motoi Sakuraba, a hugely popular composer known for his uniquely full-on prog style.

It’s astonishing that this was used as a regular battle theme.

With no holding back, the soundtrack is truly worthy of being called a classic.

crisisKikuta Hiroki

[SFC] Secret of Mana 2 – Crisis

From Square’s action RPG series, Secret of Mana (Seiken Densetsu 2).

This track, which plays during boss battles, has a highly progressive feel to its composition, making it a memorable piece that feels like it transcends the realm of video game music.

Battle Theme Part IHayama Koji, Inose Katsuyuki

Last Armageddon - Battle Theme, Part I

The battle theme from the PCE cult classic Last Armageddon, famous for the line “There’s prey!” Composer Koji Hayama, known among gamers for the legendary title Cho Aniki, worked on this track.

It’s a masterpiece: a chaotic blend of diverse genres that somehow holds together in exquisite balance.

UtopiosphereMili

Mili – Utopiosphere

A track included as a free song in the music rhythm game Deemo.

The illustration depicts a girl sitting as if standing beside a tilted giant hourglass.

It’s recommended for your first Level 7 full combo.

The baby’s cry that comes in partway through is striking.

The Land of BeginningsSuemura Kennosuke

Fist of the North Star Toki Stage: The Land of Beginnings

This is the Toki stage theme from the arcade version of Fist of the North Star, created by Arc System Works, famed for their fighting games—so intense it’s been likened to a post-apocalyptic sports action title.

Since Toki himself is so overpowered, you don’t often get the chance to hear the track all the way through, but it’s a great song if you do, so take this opportunity to give it a listen!

Ole! Silvia!sugiyama kouichi

[15-Minute Endurance] Ole! Silvia! - Dragon Quest XI (BGM)

This is the theme BGM for Sylvando, the traveling entertainer who joins your party in Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age.

Led brilliantly by a sparkling trumpet, the piece has the feel of a cheerful parade.

Listening to it vividly brings to mind Sylvando’s personality—always bright and eager to delight everyone around him.

The album “Symphonic Suite Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age,” released in January 2018, includes an orchestral performance that adds an extra layer of elegance to the lively in-game arrangement.

Perfect for lifting your spirits!