[2026] Many classic tracks! A compilation of nostalgic Japanese video game music

Theme of LauraYamaoka Akira

Theme of Laura

That melody that grabs the player’s heart the moment they step into the fog-shrouded town.

The main theme of the PlayStation 2 horror game composed by Akira Yamaoka is a classic that was released on the soundtrack in October 2001.

Its mournful guitar riff repeats as percussion layers in, unfolding a unique sonic world where quiet despair and faint hope coexist.

It’s unmistakably Yamaoka’s sound—straddling industrial and trip-hop—yet what stands out in this work is the more rock-leaning, emotional edge brought to the fore.

In 2024, a new arrangement was included on the remake’s soundtrack, showing that the piece continues to evolve even after more than 20 years.

The official YouTube video has surpassed 10 million views, and the abundance of international comments speaks to its popularity.

If you want to experience artistry that transcends the boundaries of game music, or immerse yourself in sonically rich psychological depth, this is a must-listen track.

MAGICAL SOUND SHOWERKawaguchi Hiroshi

MAGICAL SOUND SHOWER (Out Run)

This is one of the three tracks you can select from the radio-style menu before starting Sega’s immersive driving game OutRun, which began operating in arcades in September 1986.

The composer is Hiroshi Kawaguchi.

Its tropical sound, infused with elements of Latin jazz and salsa, brilliantly evokes the exhilaration of speeding through seaside resorts.

It’s impressive how the steel-pan-like bell tones, synth brass, and conga-like percussion—rendered via FM synthesis—layer together to achieve a full-band richness despite the limited polyphony.

In 2007, numerous arrangement versions were included in the OutRun 20th Anniversary Box, and the track has also been featured in rhythm games such as Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA Arcade, maimai, and Taiko no Tatsujin.

It’s a perfect pick when you want to feel the vibe of a summer drive or experience a slice of 1980s arcade culture.

Prologue ~To the Ancient Land~Ootani Miyuki

Prologue ~To the Ancient Land~

The moment the game boots up, a majestic orchestra resounds as if the doors of an ancient ruin were opening.

This piece, which graces the opening of Shadow of the Colossus—released in October 2005 for the PlayStation 2—is the pinnacle of Koh Ohtani’s symphonic scoring.

The weighty harmonies woven by the low strings and brass, layered with choral resonance, brilliantly convey the protagonist’s resolve and apprehension as he steps into a forbidden land.

Though it carries the grandeur of a Hollywood film, its faintly mournful melody tightens the chest.

Included on the album Shadow of the Colossus: Roar of the Earth, this track became a key piece underpinning the game’s world—a title that won five awards at the 2006 Game Developers Choice Awards.

It’s a masterpiece I highly recommend to anyone drawn to epic adventures and mythic tales.

On the journeyUematsu Nobuo

On the journey

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?

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.

Start Demo ~ Main ThemeKimishima Masashi

Start Demo ~ Main Theme

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.

Demon Lord ShowdownMitsuda Yasunori

Demon Lord Showdown

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.