[2026] Many classic tracks! A compilation of nostalgic Japanese video game music
From the era when chiptunes echoed to the time game music earned the artistry to be performed by full orchestras.
When we think back to those days playing on the Famicom, Super Famicom, and PlayStation, the excitement of the time comes flooding back with the melodies, doesn’t it? The countless adventures we dove into, controller in hand, were brought to life by unforgettable game BGM.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected nostalgic game music born from the Showa era through the mid-2000s.
From works lauded overseas as art to tracks with a devoted cult following, immerse yourself in the full allure of game soundtracks!
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[2026] A Treasure Trove of Classics! Compilation of Nostalgic Japanese Video Game Music (71–80)
chunk of Nanananyuu-sama
This is a track from Katamari Damacy, known for its sophisticated music.
The main theme is arranged in a distinctive way that makes it even more engaging.
I think it’s a prime example of how unique BGM can further enhance a game’s appeal.
You can enjoy the music itself while you play.
The song featuring a humming-like vocal style is also a highlight to watch for.
Main 1 (Momoko-chan Love Song)Tōkaidō Gojūsantsugi
This is the BGM for the odd-numbered stages of the Famicom game “Tokaido Gojusan-tsugi.” In the manual, the track is titled “Momoko-chan Koiuta,” and it actually has proper lyrics prepared.
If you try singing them to the tune, the key is high and the tempo is fast, so it’s tough—but once you can pull it off, it feels oddly satisfying.
After you sing it with the lyrics once, it gets stuck in your head and won’t let go.
Maybe that just shows how catchy it is.
As many as there are memories…Akiyama Koichi Ishii Tameto
The theme song of Shiori Fujisaki, the heroine of Tokimeki Memorial.
The rich timbre of the orchestral instruments is pleasant to the ear, making you feel as if you’re listening to classical music.
It features an elegant melody that seems to symbolize the peaceful moments shared by the protagonist and his childhood friend.
It’s a quiet piece that evokes the impression of teatime in a classical room.
Wandering Theme ~Drifting in Silence~ Another Worldsugiyama kouichi
It’s the field theme from Dragon Quest VI.
Among the series, it’s especially fantastical—perfectly fitting as the main theme for VI, which carries an overall mysterious atmosphere.
I think it’s a superb composition: grand in scope yet retaining a certain strangeness.
It’s written for the heroes traveling a vast world, but it seems to embody VI’s setting, which is more than just wide-open; there’s a delicate sense of unease woven in, making it a very nuanced piece.
confessionYamazaki Jun
A song that plays during the happy ending of Tokimeki Memorial, in the scene where the girl confesses to the protagonist.
The gentle main melody, reminiscent of a music box or xylophone, and the softly supportive orchestration are beautiful, making it an easy-to-listen-to piece.
It conveys a tender, fluttering feeling.