With the state of the world still being on fire, it’s nice to know that we’ve got things like video games and music to disconnect. In fact, some of the best music I’ve heard actually comes from video games. The soundtracks to games can be earworms that you’ll have in your head for weeks or just plain amazing music. So, today I’ve decided to tackle a fun little challenge. I’ll be giving about a half dozen or so songs from two of my favorite video game genres. Songs that I think are worth putting into your long drive or workout playlists.
Note: Some of the genres will have a little bit of overlap. I know that Spider-Man: Miles Morales and DOOM: Eternal are not the same kind of game.
ACTION/ADVENTURE & FPS:
“Bury the Light” from DMC5 Special Edition
Starting off with a SUPER long one. I’ve got Dante’s evil brother, Vergil’s, distinctly amazing theme from the smash hit Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition.
This song with its 9, almost 10 minute, duration is an absolute trip! With its metalcore sound reminiscent of one of my favorite bands, Solence, this one’s an epic time!
“The Only Thing They Fear Is You” from DOOM: Eternal
Keeping the rock and roll going, let’s listen to the phenomenal “The Only Thing They Fear Is You” from the genre defining FPS video game: DOOM: Eternal! This is one of my favorite songs ever composed for anything. It’s visceral in all the right ways! It’s the perfect theme to go alongside the legendary DOOM Slayer and his quest to decimate all of Hell.
“V” from Cyberpunk 2077
First impressions are everything. In the case of Cyberpunk 2077, this was an infamous video game upon release. The absolutely abysmal state the game was in from a technical level was such a gut punch to fans. I’m sure if you’ve been on the internet for any time within the last two years you’d know about that story so I’m not going to drone on about that. How that links to this list however, is that “V” is the name of both the protagonist and the opening theme when you boot up the game. When I tell you that I’ve just sat at the main menu to just listen to this theme, then know that I did that at least 5 different times.
The composition is, in my opinion, magnificent. The song perfectly captures the journey the player will go on and the vibe of the game. First impressions do matter, and this track set expectations. (Spoiler: In my opinion, it delivered.)
“On My Own” by Jaden featuring Kid Cudi from Spider-Man: Miles Morales
And to cap off this genre, let’s look at “On My Own.” A theme of sorts, for the Hispanic Miles Morales. This song encapsulates what his journey will be in the absolutely electric if albeit short, Spider-Man: Miles Morales. Originally this was used for the video game. However, it is featured in the game after Peter Parker lets Miles know that he’s “New York’s only Spider-Man.” (Don’t worry, Pete just went on vacation.)
The vibe is pristine and captivating. If you aren’t motivated by this (or the other tracks, honestly) then I don’t know what to tell you.
RPGs:
“Sanctuary” from Kingdom Heart II
A certified hood classic. If you grew up in the 2000s, had a PS2, and had any sort of love for Disney, then you definitely had this game. The video game that brought Final Fantasy and Disney together for a radically convoluted and complicated story with a simple message and endearing moments. That said, the game itself is actually quite fun in its fever dream existence. And oh yeah, the opening theme for the second game the series is such a bop. How could I not include it?
“Rivers in the Desert” from Persona 5
Capping off the list will be a set of four of my favorite songs. These come from the generation defining RPG masterpieces: Persona 5 and Persona 5 Royal.
“River in the Desert” is one of the many acid jazz tracks in the sea of great battle music within the game. However, when that part comes on… You can’t help but dance! It holds a feature that the other two upcoming tracks also share. That feature being: they’re impeccable earworms.
“Take Over” from Persona 5 Royal
My favorite of the battle themes. This one’s a masterpiece in my eyes! With its incredibly high energy and swing, it’s got me humming along and taking my time in battles just to listen to it longer. The string instruments work so perfectly together with the vocals and air instruments. I mean, I can go on, but just listen to it yourself.
“Last Surprise” from Persona 5
The most iconic of the bunch. We got the meme’d and absolutely perfect “Last Surprise.” I refuse to say anything else beyond that. Just… experience it.
“Royal Days” from Persona 5 Royal
And for the last track, let’s wind down. “Royal Days” is a wonderfully bubbly tune with that signature acid jazz style the video game icon is known for. It’s wonderful main menu music and just sounds really pleasing. Make sure to give it a listen.
And that’s all for now! if you’d like to purchase any of these games, here is the link the PlayStation Store. (FYI, all these video games are available on PlayStation but not other platforms. Be sure to check your respective digital storefronts for more.) For more on your favorites and unknown check out our Word and Drops sections.
