Nobuo Uematsu Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Waltz for the MoonUematsu Nobuo15rank/position

[Video Soundtrack] Waltz for the Moon [FINAL FANTASY VIII]

Have you heard the exquisite waltz composed by Nobuo Uematsu, often called the “Beethoven of video game music”? Released in March 1999, the RPG Final Fantasy VIII features this piece in its iconic scene where the protagonists dance.

Set in an elegant triple meter, the melody is romantic yet tinged with a certain wistfulness—that’s what makes it so striking.

It beautifully captures both the exhilaration of a glittering ballroom and the delicate emotions of two people drawn to each other but unsure of the distance between them, and it never fails to set my heart aflame each time I listen.

Why not play it on an evening when you want to bask in elegance, or during a special moment with someone dear?

Waterside (from “Piano Collections FINAL FANTASY XII”)Uematsu Nobuo16rank/position

By the water

This piano collection series, one of the works by Nobuo Uematsu—renowned as a master of video game music—is beloved by many fans for its blend of tranquility and beauty.

Though instrumental, its graceful melodies offer comfort and healing to listeners, vividly recalling the scenes and emotions from the games.

In recent years, opportunities to perform game music on acoustic instruments have grown, and it is increasingly becoming an important part of performers’ repertoire.

The piece introduced here, with a title and atmosphere reminiscent of Debussy’s impressionism, is arranged with a classical flavor and stands as a distinguished piano work that rewards technical performance.

It’s a very beautiful, uplifting piece—why not give it a try?

“Prelude” from Final FantasyUematsu Nobuo17rank/position

[Piano] Prelude – Final Fantasy IV Beginner Sheet Music [Piano Tutorial] (Synthesia)

Here are some of the signature works by Nobuo Uematsu, who has made brilliant achievements in the world of video game music.

The iconic piece from the Final Fantasy series is a piano composition distinguished by its beautiful arpeggios.

It has a fantastical, mysterious atmosphere and serves to foreshadow the beginning of an adventure.

Remarkably, it’s said to have been composed in about 30 minutes just before the game was completed.

In 2014, it was also used in a Toyota commercial, gaining recognition beyond the realm of game music.

Despite its simplicity, the melody is memorable and recommended for beginners on the piano.

The piece connects a single phrase between the left and right hands, so practice by alternating between them.

Once you can hold the chords and play them in a broken (arpeggiated) manner, you’ll be able to play it in no time!

Aerith’s Theme – Final Fantasy VII Piano CollectionsUematsu Nobuo18rank/position

Aerith's Theme

When it comes to composers for the popular RPG series Final Fantasy, Nobuo Uematsu immediately comes to mind.

Here we introduce one of his masterpieces.

Featured on the soundtrack of a hit RPG released in 1997, this piece captivated many with its fragile yet beautiful melody.

In the piano arrangement, the grace and pathos of the original stand out even more, drawing listeners into a dreamlike world.

Used during key moments in the story, the track is marked by an emotional melody that seems to symbolize the protagonist’s purity and destiny.

It’s a must-listen not only for game music fans but also for anyone who wants to be moved by a heartrending tune.

“Maria and Draco” from the game Final Fantasy VIUematsu Nobuo19rank/position

Opera de María y Draco Completa (Subs Español)

When you hear “opera in a video game,” it may be hard to imagine, but among gamers there’s a legendary, oft-discussed masterpiece themed around an opera.

It’s the opera ‘Maria and Draco’ featured in Final Fantasy VI, part of the globally popular Final Fantasy series created by Square Enix Co., Ltd.

In addition to the ambitious concept of staging an opera within a game, the music follows classical traditions while presenting a modern take on opera.

In-game, it’s a drama-like mini-opera with choices that change the content depending on the player’s selection, and it consists of four pieces: Overture, Aria, The Wedding Waltz ~ Duel, and Grand Finale.

Unlike traditional classical opera, it’s short—about 14 minutes even in orchestral performance—making it an excellent entry point for newcomers to experience the atmosphere of opera through a game.

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Battle 1Uematsu Nobuo20rank/position

Granblue Fantasy – Battle 1

Heard most frequently during standard battles in the game, this track has been beloved as the face of Granblue Fantasy since the service launched in 2014.

It was composed by Nobuo Uematsu, renowned for the FINAL FANTASY series.

The orchestral sound woven by brass and strings is energized by driving drums and bass, achieving a superb fusion of RPG-like valor and a sense of adventure.

It is also included on the album GRANBLUE FANTASY ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACKS.

Battle 2Uematsu Nobuo21rank/position

Battle 2

This is the BGM that plays during battles with powerful foes.

It’s a high-energy fusion of orchestral and rock that instantly heightens the tension.

While strings and brass deliver a bold main theme, the electric guitar and synthesizer add sheer impact—an overwhelming arrangement.

The lyrical melody line, reminiscent of battle tracks from the Final Fantasy series, is captivating, and you can feel the careful craftsmanship that keeps even a short loop from getting repetitive.

It’s a crucial track that elevates the game!