Japan has been a major player in the gaming industry, producing some of the most memorable and iconic soundtracks of all time. From the 90s through the early 2000s, these soundtracks not only defined their respective games but also left an indelible mark on gaming culture. Here are ten of the best Japanese video game soundtracks from that era.
1. Final Fantasy VII (1997) – Nobuo Uematsu
Arguably one of the most iconic soundtracks in video game history, Nobuo Uematsu’s score for Final Fantasy VII captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. Tracks like “Aerith’s Theme” and “One-Winged Angel” are legendary, blending orchestral and electronic elements in a way that helped define the game’s epic tone.
2. Chrono Trigger (1995) – Yasunori Mitsuda & Nobuo Uematsu
A masterpiece of the SNES era, Chrono Trigger features an eclectic and emotional score that spans multiple time periods. Yasunori Mitsuda’s sweeping compositions, including “Corridors of Time” and “To Far Away Times,” are timeless and still revered as some of the best RPG music ever composed.
3. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998) – Koji Kondo
Koji Kondo’s work on Ocarina of Time set a new standard for video game music. The use of the ocarina as a musical instrument within the game’s world made the soundtrack truly interactive. Songs like “Zelda’s Lullaby” and “Gerudo Valley” are unforgettable, enhancing the magical atmosphere of Hyrule.
4. Silent Hill 2 (2001) – Akira Yamaoka
Known for its haunting and atmospheric score, Silent Hill 2 pushed the boundaries of what video game music could achieve. Akira Yamaoka’s blend of industrial, ambient, and emotional piano-driven tracks, particularly “Promise (Reprise)” and “Theme of Laura,” elevated the game’s psychological horror experience.
5. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (2001) – Harry Gregson-Williams & Norihiko Hibino
Metal Gear Solid 2 featured an epic and cinematic score, merging symphonic and electronic music. With compositions by both Harry Gregson-Williams and Norihiko Hibino, the soundtrack perfectly captures the intense espionage drama of the game. The “Main Theme” became iconic for the series.
6. Street Fighter II (1991) – Yoko Shimomura
Street Fighter II’s character themes, composed by Yoko Shimomura, are some of the most memorable and catchy tracks in fighting game history. From Ryu’s theme to Guile’s now-legendary melody, the music of Street Fighter II became synonymous with competitive gaming culture.
7. Kingdom Hearts (2002) – Yoko Shimomura
Yoko Shimomura strikes again with her work on Kingdom Hearts, combining elements of Disney magic with the heart of an RPG. The orchestral and piano compositions, especially the “Dearly Beloved” theme and “Hikari,” perfectly encapsulate the dreamlike quality of the game’s narrative.
8. Shadow of the Colossus (2005) – Kow Otani
With its sweeping orchestral score, Shadow of the Colossus is a masterpiece of atmosphere and emotion. Kow Otani’s music, particularly tracks like “The Opened Way” and “Revived Power,” intensifies the feeling of solitude and epic battles against the towering colossi, becoming an integral part of the game’s storytelling.
9. Final Fantasy X (2001) – Nobuo Uematsu, Masashi Hamauzu & Junya Nakano
Final Fantasy X marked the beginning of a new era for the series, and its music evolved accordingly. Nobuo Uematsu’s compositions, alongside Masashi Hamauzu and Junya Nakano, brought a diverse range of styles to the game. From the beautiful “To Zanarkand” to the intense battle themes, the soundtrack is a fan favorite.
10. Resident Evil (1996) – Makoto Tomozawa, Akari Kaida & Masami Ueda
The original Resident Evil soundtrack created a tense, ominous atmosphere that perfectly matched the game’s survival horror theme. The eerie music in the Spencer Mansion still sends shivers down the spine, with tracks like “Save Room” providing brief moments of respite amidst the terror.These soundtracks helped define an era of gaming, blending powerful music with groundbreaking gameplay. Each one offers a unique listening experience that transports fans back to the golden age of Japanese video games.