[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] Many classic tracks appear! A collection of nostalgic Japanese video game music (11–20)
Chop Chop Master Onion RapMatsuura Masaya
This is the track that colored Stage 1 of the 1996 PlayStation music game PaRappa the Rapper.
Created by Masaya Matsuura, it’s memorable for its uniquely quirky setup in which the karate dojo master, Chop Chop Master Onion, teaches training through rap.
While rooted in hip-hop, the song exudes a playful, poppy vibe with a distinctly J-pop sensibility.
Players follow the master’s rap as a model, entering button inputs in a call-and-response format—an approach that delivered an experience that could be called the origin of rhythm games.
The soundtrack was included on the album PaRappa The Rapper Original Soundtrack, released by Sony Records in December 1996, and it has been carried forward through the PSP version and the PS4 remaster.
It’s a perfect track for anyone who wants to explore the history of game music or relive the excitement of that era.
Katamari on the Rocks ~ Main ThemeTanaka Masayuki
One of the definitive arrangements of the main theme from Katamari Damacy.
It even throws in some unexpected, mysterious lyrics, making it more upbeat and playfully spirited.
With irresistibly catchy words you can’t help but hum along to and a groovy rhythm that makes your body move, it stands as one of Katamari Damacy’s signature tracks.
On the journeyUematsu Nobuo
A track from FINAL FANTASY VII that conjures up scenes of a peaceful town encountered during a grand adventure.
Supervised by composer Nobuo Uematsu, it was included on the classic album Piano Collections FINAL FANTASY VII, released in May 2004.
The serene worldview of the original becomes even more pronounced in its solo piano arrangement, whose delicate, faintly nostalgic tones sink deep into the heart.
This piece is perfect as background music when you want to focus on work or study! Its calm, lyrical melodies will soothe your mind without disrupting your thoughts.
Why not spend a fulfilling time wrapped in the fleeting tranquility the characters themselves must have felt?
Start Demo ~ Main ThemeKimishima Masashi
Bubble Bobble is a stage-clear game where cute dinosaurs blow bubbles to trap enemies, then pop them to progress.
Thanks to its adorable characters, it was a popular arcade game among girls as well.
The BGM is, of course, a charming tune.
The Hero’s Challengesugiyama kouichi
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.
Demon Lord ShowdownMitsuda Yasunori
This piece draws you in with its weighty sound steeped in tension and intimidation.
Composed by Yasunori Mitsuda, it was used for a climactic boss battle in the Middle Ages chapter of the Super Famicom RPG Chrono Trigger, released in March 1995.
Fiery percussion layered with a majestic arrangement makes it perfectly suited to a decisive showdown.
It’s one of the great works of game music, also featured on albums such as the CHRONO Orchestral Arrangement BOX.
[2026] Many Iconic Tracks Appear! A Compilation of Nostalgic Japanese Video Game Music (21–30)
Melody of the Bladesugiyama kouichi
This is a piece known as the regular battle theme from Dragon Quest X: The Five Awakened Races Online.
Beginning with a vivid fanfare from the brass section, it stirs the fighting spirit of countless players as they face the foes they encounter.
Interestingly, there’s an anecdote that the striking introduction was extended by one measure during development to match the interval before battles begin—evidence of the game’s meticulous craftsmanship.
It’s a rousing track, perfect for recalling days of adventure or finding the courage to confront the challenges before you.