Koichi Sugiyama’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Overturesugiyama kouichi1rank/position

[GAME BGM] Overture – Dragon Quest (FC)

An indispensable piece in any discussion of video game music history, this iconic theme from the Dragon Quest series is built on a sweeping fanfare and a rousing march.

Composed by Koichi Sugiyama, it first appeared in May 1986 as the title-screen BGM for the Family Computer release and has been cherished across the entire series ever since.

In October of the same year, an orchestral arrangement was recorded as the Suite “Dragon Quest,” marking a turning point in which game music began to be evaluated on par with classical music.

More recently, at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic opening ceremony in July 2021, it was chosen for the athletes’ parade, its melody resonating around the world.

Brimming with the excitement that heralds the start of an adventure, this piece is recommended not only for those who have played the games but also for anyone who wants to enjoy a grand orchestral sound.

The Hero’s Challengesugiyama kouichi2rank/position

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.

Fly through the great skysugiyama kouichi3rank/position

Dragon Quest: Flying in the Great Sky - Flute and Harp - Heavenly Flight

Known as a piece that makes the most of the flute’s characteristics, this work was composed by Koichi Sugiyama and released in 1988 as part of the soundtrack for Dragon Quest III: And into the Legend….

It is used in the in-game flying scenes, and its captivating tone evokes the grandeur and longing for adventure of soaring freely through the sky.

There is also an orchestral version performed by the NHK Symphony Orchestra.

Reflecting Sugiyama’s pursuit of “music you don’t get tired of listening to,” this piece has resonated with many people.

It’s recommended for those who want to savor the flute’s gentle, beautiful timbre or experience a grand adventure through music.

To fight in the great skysugiyama kouichi4rank/position

Dragon Quest VIII: To Battle in the Great Sky

Koichi Sugiyama, who composed much of the music for Dragon Quest, created “Fighting in the Sky,” a track that heightens the tension and excitement of battle.

Used in Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King, its immersive sound amped up players’ adrenaline.

When this piece plays during the final battle of the main story, it makes you want to grip the controller with sweaty palms and keep fighting.

Its grand orchestration and up-tempo beat make it an essential song for combat scenes.

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mutō

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Dragon Quest ‘Overture’sugiyama kouichi5rank/position

One-Finger Piano [Dragon Quest Overture] Easy Do-Re-Mi Sheet Music for Beginners

One of the most iconic pieces among the Dragon Quest game BGM! It’s frequently performed at wind ensemble and orchestral concerts, and it captivates many people—not just game fans.

The grand sound that evokes a world of adventure is a major draw, but even the melody by itself is enough to stir excitement.

Because it uses many stepwise motions to neighboring notes, it should be approachable even with a single finger.

Play the opening fanfare at a relaxed, stately tempo, and then take the main melody a little forward-leaning; the contrast will bring out a more compelling performance.

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yuri

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Glimmers of Lovesugiyama kouichi6rank/position

[15-Minute Endurance] Dappled Light of Love - Dragon Quest XI (BGM)

If you’ve played Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age, this is a track that will set your heart ablaze.

It’s a masterpiece brimming with the warmth of sun-dappled light, beginning with delicate harp tones before the melody is passed to alto flute, oboe, and then strings—like listening to the story of life itself.

Heard during the moving scenes depicting the World Tree of Life and the bond between the sisters Veronica and Serena, it left a deep impression on many players.

It’s perfect for immersing yourself while reminiscing about the game’s most emotional moments, and just as lovely as music to soothe your daily fatigue.

Adventure journeysugiyama kouichi7rank/position

[1-Hour Endurance] Adventure Journey - from Dragon Quest III

“Adventure’s Journey” could be said to be the quintessential field theme of the Dragon Quest series.

It first appeared in Dragon Quest III and was later used in titles like Dragon Quest XI.

With its grand sound, this BGM stirs the feeling of ‘Now, the adventure begins!’

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Saitō Ayumu

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