[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)
theme songKunikatsu Murayama
The opening theme song of “Doko Demo Issyo,” whose adorable characters became hugely popular.
It’s such a catchy, energetic, and upbeat track that it wouldn’t be surprising even if it had vocals.
The smiling characters bursting onto the screen to this music are so cute, and I can’t forget that opening.
Ganbare Goemon: Yukihime Kyūshutsu Emaki (The Legend of the Mystical Ninja: The Rescue of Princess Yuki)Uehara Kazuhiko, Kamitaka Harumi
The first Super Famicom entry in a game series that was a hit on the Famicom is The Legend of the Mystical Ninja (Yukihime Kyūshutsu Emaki).
It introduced two-player simultaneous play and, with its comical tone, was great fun to play with friends or a significant other.
The BGM also has an Edo-period musical style.
doorObata Yukari
The ending theme song of Double Cast, a horror entry in the Yarudora series.
Its upbeat yet eerie sound pairs perfectly with Ms.
Kobata’s slightly husky, sexy vocals, making it an incredibly cool track.
It has the feel of an anime ending, and since you actually hear it at the end of the game, the lyrics leave a strong impact and really stick in your ears.
Overworld BGMKoji Kondo
This is the overworld BGM from Super Mario World.
It uses what is probably the most familiar melody line.
It’s a poppy, catchy, bright, and fun tune.
Since it’s a game anyone can enjoy, regardless of age or gender, the song has a very family-friendly feel.
I think it’s a track that anyone can enjoy and that gets anyone excited when they hear it.
JuliaUematsu Nobuo
An arrangement of the song “Eyes On Me,” synonymous with Final Fantasy VIII.
It’s a piece tied to a woman named Julia who also appears in the main game.
The gentle, warm melody makes you listen in a blissful daze—so soothing that it almost lulls you to sleep, a track that pleasantly sinks into your ears.