20 Video Games with Soundtracks So Good They Charted on Spotify

Video game music has evolved from simple chiptunes into complex orchestral arrangements and chart-topping pop hits. Streaming platforms have allowed composers to reach audiences far beyond the gaming community. Many original soundtracks now garner millions of streams and appear on viral charts alongside mainstream artists. The following titles feature musical scores that achieved significant popularity and commercial success on music streaming services.

‘Minecraft’ (2011)

The ambient soundtrack composed by C418 is widely regarded as a masterpiece of the genre. The album ‘Minecraft – Volume Alpha’ features minimalist piano tracks that evoke a sense of wonder and solitude. Songs like Sweden and Subwoofer Lullaby appear frequently on study and relaxation playlists across streaming platforms. The music perfectly complements the creative freedom found within the game while standing strong as a standalone listening experience. Its enduring popularity keeps it high on streaming charts years after its initial release.

‘Undertale’ (2015)

Toby Fox composed the entire score for this indie hit and created one of the most recognizable soundtracks in gaming history. The track Megalovania became an internet phenomenon and amassed hundreds of millions of streams. Listeners appreciate the way the music shifts between humorous leitmotifs and emotional ballads. The soundtrack captures the quirky personality of the characters while delivering memorable melodies. Its viral success introduced chiptune music to a much wider global audience.

‘Persona 5’ (2016)

Shoji Meguro infused acid jazz and funk elements into this stylish role-playing game. Vocal tracks like Last Surprise and Rivers in the Desert became instant hits among fans and casual listeners alike. The energetic basslines and smooth vocals create a distinct musical identity that separates it from traditional fantasy scores. ‘Persona 5’ proved that video game battle themes could function as catchy pop songs. The soundtrack remains a staple for listeners seeking upbeat and sophisticated background music.

‘League of Legends’ (2009)

Riot Games expanded their musical reach by creating the virtual K-pop group K/DA featuring characters from the game. Their debut single POP/STARS topped the World Digital Song Sales chart and generated massive streaming numbers. The production quality rivals that of major mainstream pop acts and attracted listeners who had never played the game. Subsequent releases by the virtual group continued to perform well on global music charts. This venture demonstrated the massive crossover potential between competitive gaming and the music industry.

‘Cyberpunk 2077’ (2020)

The developers collaborated with various artists to create a futuristic radio station soundscape for Night City. The song I Really Want to Stay at Your House by Rosa Walton gained a massive resurgence in popularity following the release of the anime adaptation. It entered global viral charts and became an emotional anthem for the franchise. Other tracks range from industrial rock to electronic beats that fit the dystopian setting. The diverse collection of licensed and original music keeps the album in heavy rotation for sci-fi fans.

‘Doom’ (2016)

Mick Gordon created a heavy metal soundtrack that perfectly matches the aggressive gameplay of this shooter. The composer used synthesized sounds mixed with downtuned guitars to create a gritty and industrial atmosphere. Tracks like BFG Division became anthems for the metal community and workout playlists. The music reacts dynamically to the player actions but remains intense when listened to separately. This score redefined what modern action game audio could sound like.

‘The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’ (2015)

Marcin Przybyłowicz and his team utilized Slavic folk instruments to craft an immersive fantasy atmosphere. The track Silver for Monsters showcases the distinct vocals and percussion that define the game world. Fans stream the soundtrack to experience the rugged beauty and melancholy of the setting. The music became widely celebrated for its authenticity and emotional depth. Concerts performing these suites continue to sell out venues around the world.

‘Cuphead’ (2017)

Kristofer Maddigan composed a frantic and authentic big band jazz score for this run-and-gun platformer. The music was recorded with a live orchestra to capture the specific sound of 1930s cartoons. Songs like Floral Fury utilize fast tempos and complex brass arrangements that delight jazz enthusiasts. The soundtrack received critical acclaim and reached high positions on jazz music charts. It stands as a unique example of period-accurate composition in modern media.

‘NieR: Automata’ (2017)

Keiichi Okabe produced a hauntingly beautiful score that mixes orchestral elements with imaginary languages. The vocals are designed to sound like a futuristic dialect that conveys emotion without specific lyrics. Tracks such as Weight of the World invoke a strong emotional response from players and listeners. The soundtrack is often cited as one of the best in gaming history for its artistic merit. Its high streaming numbers reflect the deep connection fans feel toward the narrative.

‘Final Fantasy VII Remake’ (2020)

Nobuo Uematsu and Masashi Hamauzu reimagined classic themes with full orchestral production. The battle theme Let the Battles Begin! was updated to sound more dynamic and cinematic. The soundtrack includes a mix of electronic beats and symphonic arrangements that appeal to a broad audience. The release of the original soundtrack on streaming services was a major event for the gaming community. It successfully bridges the nostalgia of the original game with modern musical standards.

‘Hollow Knight’ (2017)

Christopher Larkin composed a melancholic and atmospheric score for this subterranean adventure. The music relies heavily on piano and strings to convey the tragic history of the game world. Tracks like City of Tears are frequently added to playlists focused on focus and sadness. The elegant composition elevates the indie game experience to an artistic height. The soundtrack has maintained a steady presence on streaming platforms due to its calming nature.

‘The Last of Us’ (2013)

Gustavo Santaolalla used a ronroco and acoustic guitar to create a raw and intimate soundscape. The main theme is instantly recognizable for its minimalist approach and emotional weight. The music focuses on silence and space rather than bombastic action cues. This approach helped the soundtrack gain recognition beyond the gaming sphere as a work of serious composition. The success of the television adaptation propelled these tracks back onto the charts years later.

‘Celeste’ (2018)

Lena Raine combined synth-wave and piano to represent the internal struggles of the protagonist. The track Resurrections builds in intensity to match the increasing difficulty of the gameplay. Listeners resonate with the anxiety and triumph embedded in the electronic melodies. The soundtrack is celebrated for its ability to tell a story through instrumental progression. It remains a favorite for fans of electronic and ambient music.

‘Skyrim’ (2011)

Jeremy Soule created an epic fantasy score that defined the open-world genre for a decade. The song Dragonborn features a massive choir singing in a fictional dragon language. The ambient tracks that play while exploring the world are staples of relaxation and sleep playlists. The music captures the vastness and icy climate of the setting perfectly. Its cultural impact ensured that the soundtrack remains popular on streaming services.

‘Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ (2020)

The soundtrack features hourly themes that change depending on the time of day. The upbeat and acoustic tunes provided comfort to millions of players during global lockdowns. Fans stream the music to recreate the peaceful island atmosphere in their daily lives. The main theme became a symbol of positivity and community connection. Its gentle instrumentation makes it ideal for background listening during work or study.

‘Hades’ (2020)

Darren Korb described the genre of this soundtrack as Mediterranean prog rock. The music blends traditional instruments like the bouzouki with distorted electric guitars. Tracks such as In the Blood feature powerful vocals that narrate the themes of the story. The high-energy compositions match the fast-paced combat of the roguelike gameplay. This unique fusion of styles garnered significant attention on music platforms.

‘Hotline Miami’ (2012)

The developers curated a selection of high-octane synth-wave tracks from various artists. Songs like Hydrogen by M.O.O.N. became synonymous with the neon aesthetic of the game. The driving beats and retro synthesizers fueled the revival of the synth-wave genre. Listeners enjoy the adrenaline rush provided by the aggressive electronic music. The soundtrack is considered essential listening for fans of 1980s-inspired electronic music.

‘Journey’ (2012)

Austin Wintory composed the first video game soundtrack to be nominated for a Grammy Award. The score features sweeping cello solos that mirror the movement of the character across the sand. The music dynamically shifts to reflect the emotional arc of the pilgrimage. Listeners appreciate the spiritual and transcendent quality of the compositions. It remains a benchmark for how orchestral music is utilized in interactive media.

‘Genshin Impact’ (2020)

Yu-Peng Chen and HOYO-MiX produce distinct orchestral themes for each region within the game. The music incorporates traditional instruments from different cultures to represent various nations. The sheer volume of high-quality music released regularly keeps the game charting on streaming services. Fans eagerly anticipate the release of new character themes and battle music. The production value rivals that of major film scores.

‘Grand Theft Auto V’ (2013)

Tangerine Dream and other composers created the original score while the radio stations featured licensed hits. The original instrumental track The Setup became a favorite for its rhythmic tension. The curated radio stations introduced millions of players to new genres and classic artists. Songs featured in the game often see a significant spike in streams. The musical selection is a crucial part of the satirical world Rockstar Games created.

Let us know which video game soundtrack dominates your Spotify Wrapped in the comments.