2023 has been an exceptional year not only for gaming but also for the music that accompanies these digital adventures. The recognition of video game soundtracks as a legitimate and artistically valuable form of music was highlighted when, earlier this year, the Grammy's introduced an award category purely for video game scores. This rising appreciation for the audio aspect of gaming prompted us to shine a spotlight on the best musical experiences the Nintendo Switch has to offer this year.
With a wealth of genres and styles, each game brings its own auditory flavor to the console, from epic symphonies and cool funk to emotional ballads and upbeat pop. We've picked the cream of the crop, excluding ports save for one notable exception, carefully selecting 16 soundtracks that have resonated with gamers and critics alike.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder brought a modern twist to a classic, infusing its levels with an eclectic mix of whimsical tunes that capture the heart of the Mario universe. From the upbeat 'Athletic Theme' to the playful 'Piranha Plants on Parade,' it's a soundtrack that beautifully complements Mario's latest outing on the Switch.
Bomb Rush Cyberfunk tapped into the stylish legacy of Jet Set Radio, featuring contributions from musicians like 2 Mello, GRRL, and Knxwledge, resulting in a soundscape that's both retro and refreshingly new. It's a mix that feels as invigorating as the game's rollerblading action.
Sea of Stars, by Eric Brown, harks back to the glory days of 16-bit RPGs with its epic melodies and cheerful town tunes. The pirate musicians within the game add a delightful layer of meta-musicality, rounding out what is a loving homage to classic gaming music.
Then there's Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical. This unique combination of a visual novel and a musical, with a score by Austin Wintory, shows the breadth of musical talent in gaming today. Stray Gods proves that a game can not only contain music but be about the music at its heart.
Blasphemous 2 takes a darker turn with its haunting flamenco guitars and somber melodies. Composer Carlos Viola builds on the original game's soundtrack with a more varied musical offering, still deeply evocative and moody, capturing the game's solemn and reflective themes.
With Cassette Beasts, music isn't just an accompaniment—it's a core game mechanic. The tunes by Joel Baylis include dual versions for battles, one instrumental and one with vocals kicking in during fusion. The British pop-punk influence gives the game a distinct audio identity that connects with the player on a personal level.
The majestic Octopath Traveler II by Yasunori Nishiki could be argued as the best of the year, with an impressive array of 131 tracks over six discs. The variation is staggering—with jazz, rock, and classical themes mixed in—and each piece masterfully adds to the game’s atmosphere and storytelling.
Lastly, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom takes us back to the familiar yet evergreen music of the Zelda franchise. While it leans on the foundations laid by its predecessor, Breath of the Wild, this soundtrack expands on it, bringing a richer sonic landscape as players once again explore the vastness of Hyrule.
Each of these titles stands out for its musical contributions to the gaming experience. This year, the Nintendo Switch has seen composers both seasoned and new bring their A-game, crafting soundscapes that resonate beyond the screen and linger in our memories. Whether it's the adrenaline of an epic battle, the warmth of a village theme, or the quirkiness of a new world, these soundtracks are pillars of their respective games, deserving recognition not just as great video game music, but as great music, period.
From nostalgia-evoking melodies to innovative new compositions, the year 2023 emphasizes the indispensable role of music in video games. It showcases the emotional depth and creativity that composers pour into these interactive worlds. Their work not only enriches gaming experiences but also provides standalone soundtracks that fans will enjoy for a lifetime. Each piece mentioned here is a testament to the talent and dedication that goes into video game music, and together, they create a playlist that's perfect for any fan of music, gaming, or both.
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