Video games and music are two of the most dynamic and immersive forms of entertainment, blending storytelling, artistry, and technology in unique ways.
Music plays a vital role in shaping the gaming experience, from setting the mood and enhancing emotions to building tension and excitement. Whether it’s the iconic 8-bit soundtracks of classic games or the sweeping orchestral scores of modern titles, music has the power to transform gameplay into a deeply engaging journey.
This synergy between video games and music has not only elevated the gaming industry but also fostered a cultural phenomenon that resonates with players of all ages and backgrounds.
The strong connection between video games and the music industry began to solidify in the 1980s and 1990s, evolving alongside advancements in gaming technology. Early on, video game soundtracks consisted of simple chiptunes, but even these gained recognition for their creativity and ability to set the tone for gameplay.
Iconic soundtracks from games like Super Mario Bros. (1985) and The Legend of Zelda (1986) became culturally significant, with their melodies still widely recognized today.
The 1990s marked a turning point when CD-based gaming consoles, such as the Sony PlayStation, enabled games to feature full orchestral scores and licensed music from mainstream artists. For example, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater (1999) brought punk and alternative rock into the gaming scene, exposing players to music that would define an era. Games like Final Fantasy VII (1997) showcased elaborate original scores that rivaled film soundtracks in complexity and emotional depth.
The rise of rhythm games like Dance Dance Revolution (1998) and Guitar Hero (2005) further cemented the connection, as these games placed music at the forefront of the experience. Today, collaborations between game developers and musicians, as well as the emergence of live performances of video game soundtracks, illustrate the profound and enduring link between the two industries.
Several video games have propelled relatively unknown music groups into the spotlight, significantly boosting their visibility and fanbase. Here are a few notable examples:
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Series
The Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise is legendary for its carefully curated soundtracks that introduced punk, ska, and alternative bands to a global audience. Bands like Goldfinger (“Superman”) and Millencolin (“No Cigar”) gained widespread recognition through their inclusion in these games, turning them into anthems for an entire generation of gamers.
Guitar Hero and Rock Band
While many songs featured in Guitar Hero and Rock Band were already well-known, the games also spotlighted lesser-known artists and revived interest in older tracks. For instance, the song “Through the Fire and Flames” by DragonForce became a viral sensation and a test of skill in Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock, catapulting the band into international fame.
Grand Theft Auto Series
The Grand Theft Auto games are known for their in-game radio stations featuring a mix of mainstream and underground tracks. For example, GTA: Vice City helped popularize 1980s hits, while GTA V introduced players to newer artists such as Wavves and Flying Lotus, some of whom saw spikes in popularity after the game’s release.
Life is Strange
The indie game Life is Strange (2015) features a poignant soundtrack of indie and alternative music that resonated deeply with players. Artists like Syd Matters (“Obstacles”) and Daughter found wider audiences after being featured in the game.
FIFA Series
The FIFA soccer game franchise has consistently introduced players to international and indie artists. Bands like Imagine Dragons and Kasabian were featured in earlier titles, gaining exposure to millions of players worldwide before achieving broader commercial success.
Video games often serve as a powerful platform for discovery, allowing lesser-known artists to reach massive audiences who might not have encountered their music otherwise. This symbiotic relationship has transformed video games into a vital medium for music promotion.
Music producers and the video game industry collaborate extensively today, reflecting how integral music has become to the gaming experience. The process of selecting music for video games involves several approaches, each tailored to the game’s style, tone, and audience. Here’s an overview of how this works:
Original Scores by Composers
Game developers often hire professional composers to create original scores specifically designed to match the game’s mood, storyline, and gameplay dynamics.
Renowned composers like Koji Kondo (The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Bros.), Jeremy Soule (The Elder Scrolls), and Austin Wintory (Journey) are examples of musicians who have elevated games with bespoke compositions.
These collaborations are usually commissioned early in the game’s development to ensure the music integrates seamlessly with the overall experience.
Licensing Existing Music
Some games license tracks from popular or up-and-coming artists to enhance their appeal. For example, sports games like FIFA or NBA 2K often feature a mix of genres and artists that align with their diverse global audiences.
Licensing agreements can range from a single track to a full album, with rights negotiated to allow use in trailers, gameplay, or in-game radio stations.
Partnerships with Music Producers
Music producers collaborate with game developers to curate or create soundtracks. For instance, Cyberpunk 2077 featured contributions from Grimes and Run the Jewels, blending futuristic themes with the game’s cyberpunk aesthetic.
Producers may also adapt existing songs or produce remixes tailored to a game’s unique atmosphere.
Integration of Music into Gameplay
Rhythm and music-based games like Guitar Hero, Just Dance, and Beat Saber involve direct collaboration with artists and producers to integrate their music into interactive gameplay mechanics.
These games often feature exclusives or original tracks designed for gameplay challenges.
Indie Game Soundtracks
Indie game developers often work with lesser-known artists or producers to craft distinctive soundscapes on smaller budgets. Games like Undertale and Celeste feature original music that gained cult status due to their artistic uniqueness and emotional resonance.
Music Agencies and Supervisors
Music supervisors act as intermediaries, helping developers source and license music that fits a game’s vision. They negotiate rights, manage contracts, and ensure compliance with copyright laws.
Agencies specializing in video game music, such as Laced Records, focus on bringing the right artists and producers to gaming projects.
Trends and Benefits
Major artists and labels increasingly view video games as a lucrative platform for music promotion, reaching a global and often younger demographic.
Live performances and virtual concerts in games like Fortnite and Roblox have further blurred the lines between the music and gaming industries.
Soundtracks are often released as standalone albums, with some even performed in symphony orchestras, underscoring their cultural significance.
The selection and production of music for video games have evolved into a sophisticated process where producers, artists, and developers collaborate to craft immersive, memorable experiences.
Millions of people are exposed to music they enjoy through video games, often rivaling or exceeding exposure through traditional platforms like radio or streaming services. Here’s why video games are such a significant channel for music discovery:
Vast Gaming Audience
The global gaming market is enormous, with an estimated 3.3 billion gamers worldwide in 2023. Popular games reach tens or even hundreds of millions of players, providing unparalleled exposure.
For instance, Fortnite has over 400 million registered players, making it a massive platform for artists featured in in-game events or soundtracks.
Targeted Engagement
Unlike passive listening on platforms like radio, gamers are actively engaged while playing, creating a deeper emotional connection to the music.
The context of a game’s story or action often enhances how a player perceives and remembers the music.
Length of Exposure
Gamers spend significant time playing, often replaying levels, or revisiting their favorite games. This repeated exposure to a soundtrack or specific song can lead to stronger recognition and appreciation compared to hearing a song once on a playlist or during a brief radio segment.
Discovery Through Specific Genres
Music-heavy games like FIFA, NBA 2K, Grand Theft Auto, and Need for Speed expose players to curated playlists that become part of the cultural experience of the game. Many players discover and seek out artists featured in these games.
Rhythm games such as Guitar Hero, Rock Band, and Just Dance directly involve players with music, creating a unique bond that may not occur with other forms of media.
Virtual Events and Crossovers
Games like Fortnite and Roblox host virtual concerts featuring artists such as Travis Scott and Marshmello. These events attract millions of live viewers—Travis Scott’s Astronomical concert drew over 27 million attendees in Fortnite.
Social Amplification
Many gamers share their experiences on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, further amplifying the reach of video game soundtracks and featured artists. Viral moments tied to in-game music can boost an artist’s visibility far beyond the gaming audience.
Comparison with Other Platforms
Streaming Services: Platforms like Spotify or Apple Music may have broader user bases, but their vast libraries can make individual songs less likely to stand out unless featured on popular playlists.
Radio: While radio can reach large audiences, its influence has declined compared to digital platforms, especially among younger generations who lean toward gaming and streaming for entertainment.
Movies and TV: These mediums also promote music effectively, but their shorter time frames and less interactive nature mean music may not resonate as deeply as in games.
Through a combination of active engagement, emotional storytelling, and repeated exposure, video games provide a unique and effective platform for music discovery. Millions of players hear music they like through gaming, often discovering artists they might never have encountered otherwise. This ability to connect music with immersive experiences makes video games one of the most powerful tools for music promotion today.
Several bands and music groups have achieved significant success or risen to prominence after being featured in video games. While not all their success may be purely due to gaming, their inclusion in iconic games played a crucial role in their recognition. Here are some of the top examples:
DragonForce
Game: Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock
Song: “Through the Fire and Flames”
DragonForce was relatively unknown outside the metal community until Guitar Hero III featured their complex, high-energy track as the game’s “ultimate challenge.” The song became a viral sensation, launching the band into global fame.
Goldfinger
Game: Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater
Song: “Superman”
Goldfinger’s ska-punk anthem became a defining track for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, introducing the band to millions of gamers and securing their place in pop-punk history.
The Black Keys
Game: Multiple, including NHL 11 and FIFA 11
Songs: Tracks like “Tighten Up”
While The Black Keys had a growing fan base, their inclusion in sports games like FIFA and NHL helped them reach a mainstream audience, greatly contributing to their breakout success.
Avenged Sevenfold
Game: Need for Speed: Underground 2
Song: “Blinded in Chains”
The Need for Speed franchise was instrumental in showcasing Avenged Sevenfold’s blend of heavy metal and rock, helping them find an audience beyond their niche fanbase.
Kasabian
Game: FIFA 13
Song: “Club Foot”
Kasabian gained significant international exposure after their energetic track became synonymous with FIFA. The game’s global popularity brought the band into the spotlight, especially outside the UK.
The Dandy Warhols
Game: Gran Turismo 2
Song: “Bohemian Like You”
This alternative rock band saw their catchy single gain traction after its inclusion in Gran Turismo 2, where players associated the upbeat track with thrilling racing experiences.
Jet
Game: Madden NFL 2004
Song: “Are You Gonna Be My Girl”
Jet’s explosive debut was significantly amplified by their inclusion in Madden NFL 2004, catapulting the band into international stardom.
Madina Lake
Game: Burnout Paradise
Song: “Never Take Us Alive”
Burnout Paradise exposed the alt-rock band to a massive audience, elevating their career through the game’s energetic and action-packed vibe.
CHVRCHES
Game: Forza Horizon
Songs: Various tracks
CHVRCHES’ synth-pop sound gained substantial traction after being featured in the Forza Horizon franchise, appealing to gamers and music enthusiasts alike.
Simian Mobile Disco
Game: FIFA 08
Song: “I Believe”
The electronic duo found a wider audience through their inclusion in FIFA, a game celebrated for spotlighting emerging and diverse musical talent.
For many of these artists, video games acted as a launchpad to reach broader audiences. While not all achieved their success purely through gaming, the exposure from these platforms was often pivotal in elevating their careers to new heights.
It is entirely possible for music to become a hit through video games before gaining broader recognition elsewhere. Video games have evolved into powerful cultural platforms that can introduce music to a vast, engaged audience, often making a song or artist popular in the gaming community before the mainstream music world catches on. Here’s how this happens:
Instant Exposure to Millions
Popular games like FIFA, Guitar Hero, or Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater have millions of players worldwide, offering unparalleled exposure to featured music.
For example, Goldfinger’s “Superman” and DragonForce’s “Through the Fire and Flames” were largely unknown tracks until their respective games made them iconic.
Memorable Association
Music often becomes associated with specific game moments, characters, or levels. This emotional connection can turn a relatively obscure track into a memorable hit within the gaming community.
Players frequently replay games, ensuring repeated exposure to these songs, which builds familiarity and affection for the music.
Virality in Gaming Communities
Songs featured in games often gain momentum through word-of-mouth, player recommendations, and online forums. Clips and gameplay videos shared on YouTube or Twitch can amplify this effect, sometimes leading to viral hits.
Soundtracks from games like Grand Theft Auto or Need for Speed are often widely discussed and shared among gamers.
Early Adoption by Gaming Audiences
Gamers, especially in certain genres, are often trendsetters who pride themselves on discovering new music. A song that resonates with the gaming audience can find an enthusiastic early following before breaking into mainstream charts.
Indie and lesser-known artists benefit significantly from this phenomenon, as their tracks gain attention long before traditional radio or streaming platforms pick them up.
Crossover into Mainstream Media
Successful gaming tracks often transition into broader popularity when non-gaming fans hear them through streaming playlists, advertisements, or as background music in pop culture settings.
The line between video game soundtracks and mainstream success is increasingly blurred, with some tracks finding chart success directly because of their inclusion in games.
Examples of Songs Becoming Hits in Video Games First
“Superman” by Goldfinger (Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater): Gained massive popularity through the game, becoming a ska-punk anthem.
“Take Me Out” by Franz Ferdinand (Guitar Hero): While the band was rising, its inclusion in Guitar Hero made the track a must-hear for a broader audience.
“Song 2” by Blur (FIFA 98): This track became globally associated with high-energy sports action after its appearance in FIFA.
Video games often act as the first platform for music to gain traction, especially for emerging or niche artists. By tapping into the immersive and repetitive nature of gaming, a track can become a hit in the gaming community before achieving mainstream success. This makes video games a unique and powerful avenue for music discovery and promotion.
Collaborations Between Game Developers and Artists
The connection between the music and video game industries has grown into a collaborative process, with game developers increasingly working directly with artists to create exclusive content. These collaborations can take various forms, such as original compositions for soundtracks or themed in-game events.
For example, Cyberpunk 2077 featured music from artists like Grimes and Run the Jewels, some of whom even had their personas represented within the game world. Such partnerships allow artists to showcase their music in a unique medium while helping game developers create a culturally rich, immersive experience.
Another notable trend is artists debuting new tracks or albums through video games. For instance, Travis Scott performed an in-game concert in Fortnite that premiered unreleased music, reaching millions in a virtual environment. Similarly, Grand Theft Auto V introduced new radio stations with exclusive music updates, keeping the game fresh while promoting artists.
Evolving Role of Music Licensing
The process of licensing music for video games has evolved into a significant business for both industries. Music licensing agreements vary widely, with developers paying royalties or flat fees to use tracks in games. This practice provides musicians, especially indie artists, with a steady income stream and exposure to diverse audiences.
Licensing has also expanded to include older tracks, giving classics a second life. For example, Rockstar Games often curates soundtracks with retro hits for the Grand Theft Auto series, exposing younger players to music from past decades. This strategic use of music enhances the nostalgia and appeal of the games while benefiting the artists and their estates.
Impact of Music Streaming in Games
With the rise of music streaming services, the relationship between video games and the music industry has become even more dynamic. Platforms like Spotify have partnered with gaming companies to allow users to integrate their playlists into gameplay. Services such as Spotify Gaming feature curated playlists inspired by iconic games and soundtracks, creating a seamless connection between gaming and music discovery.
Some games have taken this further by incorporating on-demand music streaming into their worlds. For example, Forza Horizon lets players choose from multiple in-game radio stations, blending curated soundtracks with user-created playlists. This convergence has broadened opportunities for artists to reach gaming audiences without direct inclusion in game development.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Interactive Music Experiences
The rise of virtual reality (VR) has added a new dimension to the connection between music and video games. VR music games like Beat Saber and Audica allow players to interact with music in ways that were previously impossible, combining rhythm, motion, and visual effects. These games often include tracks from mainstream and indie artists, giving them a unique platform for exposure.
Additionally, VR concerts and experiences are becoming more common. Artists can now perform in fully immersive virtual environments, as seen with Björk’s VR album Vulnicura VR or live VR events in platforms like VRChat. These ventures represent a frontier where video games and music merge to create innovative entertainment.
The Role of Esports and Music in Branding
Esports, or competitive gaming, has also contributed to the intertwining of music and gaming. Tournaments like the League of Legends World Championship have featured live music performances, such as Imagine Dragons’ Warriors in 2014. Music is also used in marketing campaigns for esports, helping to build excitement and brand identity for both the games and the artists involved.
Beyond events, many esports teams and organizations collaborate with musicians to create theme songs or promotional tracks. These collaborations strengthen the cultural impact of both industries, blurring the lines between gaming, music, and sports entertainment.
The Role of Video Game Scores in the Industry
Original scores composed for video games have become a recognized art form within the music industry. Composers like Nobuo Uematsu (Final Fantasy), Jeremy Soule (The Elder Scrolls), and Gustavo Santaolalla (The Last of Us) have gained widespread acclaim, and their work is celebrated in concerts, album releases, and even Grammy nominations. Video game scores are no longer considered secondary to film soundtracks but are instead recognized as central to storytelling and emotional resonance.
This recognition has created new opportunities for composers to build careers in video game music, with many transitioning from traditional media like film or TV. The shift has also led to specialized education programs in music composition for interactive media.
Cultural Significance of Game Soundtracks
Video game soundtracks often hold deep cultural significance, shaping how players perceive the game and leaving lasting memories. Music is frequently tied to specific moments or milestones in games, becoming a part of players’ emotional experiences. For example, the hauntingly beautiful Zelda’s Lullaby from The Legend of Zelda series is an instantly recognizable melody for generations of gamers.
This cultural impact has extended into live performances, such as orchestral concerts featuring video game music. Events like The Video Game Orchestra or Distant Worlds: Music from Final Fantasy attract fans worldwide, further demonstrating the importance of music in gaming culture.
The intersection of music and video games continues to evolve, fostering creativity, collaboration, and innovation that benefits both industries. From iconic soundtracks to virtual concerts, the connection between these two forms of entertainment grows stronger every year, offering artists and game developers new ways to captivate audiences.
The Billboard Hot 100 does not specifically track or rank the top music featured in video games as part of its methodology. Instead, the Hot 100 ranks songs based on a combination of:
Streaming activity (including platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube)
Radio airplay
Sales data (both digital and physical sales)
However, music featured in video games can indirectly influence a song’s success on the Hot 100 in several ways:
Increased Streams and Downloads
When a song gains popularity through a video game, players may seek it out on streaming platforms or purchase it digitally. These activities contribute to the metrics that the Billboard Hot 100 tracks. For instance, tracks from games like Grand Theft Auto or FIFA have seen spikes in streaming numbers after players discover them in the game.
Viral Boost via Gaming Platforms
Popular gaming content, such as Twitch streams, YouTube gameplay videos, and TikTok clips featuring a song from a game, can significantly boost a track’s exposure. If this leads to more people streaming or purchasing the song, it may chart on the Hot 100. This effect has been observed with songs like “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd, which gained additional traction when used in user-generated content tied to gaming.
Crossover Promotions
Some artists and labels leverage video game platforms to promote their music. For example, artists performing live concerts in games like Fortnite (e.g., Travis Scott or Ariana Grande) often see a spike in streams and sales, which can help their songs climb the Billboard charts. Though this is not unique to video game soundtracks, the crossover exposure can be a powerful driver of success.
Billboard Sub-Charts and Genre Rankings
While the Hot 100 does not directly track video game music, Billboard has genre-specific charts (like Alternative Songs, Rock Songs, or Dance/Electronic Songs) that may reflect tracks gaining momentum through video games. If a game soundtrack heavily features songs from these genres, and those tracks perform well on streaming and sales platforms, they can appear on Billboard’s other charts.
What Could Change?
As the relationship between video games and music continues to grow, there’s potential for more specialized tracking. Billboard or other music tracking organizations may consider incorporating metrics that reflect video game music trends, such as streams originating from in-game music integrations.
For now, the influence of video games on the Billboard Hot 100 is indirect, but it is increasingly significant as games become a key platform for music discovery.
Video games have become a massive entry point for music discovery, rivaling traditional platforms like radio, television, and streaming services. Over the past two decades, the gaming industry has transformed into one of the most influential cultural arenas, and its integration with music has solidified video games as a significant medium for artists to reach new audiences. Here’s why video games are such a powerful platform for music:
Global Reach and Accessibility
Video games have an enormous and diverse global audience. With billions of players worldwide, music featured in games has the potential to reach far more people than traditional mediums, especially as gaming continues to grow in popularity across different age groups, demographics, and regions.
Repeated Exposure
Unlike other entertainment mediums, video games offer repeated, immersive exposure to the music they feature. A player might hear the same track multiple times during gameplay, which can help cement the song in their memory. This constant repetition often leads to a deeper appreciation of the music, even if it’s unfamiliar at first.
Emotional Connection
The immersive nature of video games creates strong emotional associations with the music. Whether it’s an epic battle theme, a nostalgic menu track, or a victory song, players often link the music to memorable moments in their gaming experiences. This emotional connection can transform a song into an enduring favorite for gamers.
Diverse Opportunities for Artists
Video games provide various ways for artists to gain exposure:
Licensed Tracks: Popular franchises like FIFA, Need for Speed, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater introduce new and classic songs to global audiences.
Original Scores: Composers create unique, game-specific soundtracks that can achieve iconic status, such as those for Final Fantasy, Halo, or The Elder Scrolls.
In-Game Events: Virtual concerts in games like Fortnite allow artists to debut songs and perform for millions in an interactive setting.
Appeal to Niche and Indie Artists
Indie and lesser-known artists benefit significantly from video game exposure. Titles with curated soundtracks, such as Life is Strange or Hotline Miami, have helped smaller artists gain widespread recognition, often propelling their careers forward. The gaming community tends to embrace and support such artists enthusiastically.
Influence of Streaming and Social Media
Gaming-related platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and TikTok amplify the reach of music featured in games. Players often stream their gameplay or create content that includes game music, leading to viral exposure for certain tracks or artists. This organic promotion can help songs gain traction on mainstream charts or playlists.
Bridging Generations and Cultures
Video games often blend music from different genres, eras, and cultures, exposing players to sounds they might not encounter otherwise. A game like Grand Theft Auto may feature everything from classic rock to hip-hop to reggae, making it a melting pot for music discovery.
Examples of Success
“Through the Fire and Flames” by DragonForce gained international fame after being featured in Guitar Hero III.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater soundtracks introduced ska, punk, and alternative rock to a generation of gamers.
FIFA games regularly showcase emerging global artists, helping them gain recognition beyond their home countries.
Video games are now one of the most impactful mediums for music discovery. They not only introduce artists to massive, engaged audiences but also create lasting cultural moments through music. As gaming continues to grow and evolve, its influence on the music industry will undoubtedly deepen, offering even more innovative ways for artists to connect with fans.
To dive deeper into the connection between the music and video game industries, you can explore a range of sources that cover various aspects of both fields, from industry trends to specific collaborations between artists and game developers. Here are some great places to start your research:
1. Books and Publications
- “The Art of Game Music” by Jamie Ro
This book offers insights into the creation and evolution of video game music, examining both the technical and creative sides of the industry. - “Game Sound: An Introduction to the History, Theory, and Practice of Video Game Music and Sound Design” by Karen Collins
A comprehensive guide to the evolution of video game music, from early arcade games to modern blockbuster titles, and its role in the gaming experience. - “Music, Sound, and the Moving Image” by Tim Summers
This text delves into the intersection of music, sound design, and interactive media, covering both films and video games.
2. Websites and Online Resources
- Gamasutra (now GameDev.net)
An industry-leading resource for game development, Gamasutra often features articles on the role of music and sound in games, from soundtracks to in-game performances and licensing.- Website: https://www.gamedeveloper.com
- Billboard’s Gaming Section
Billboard has articles and reports that occasionally explore the crossover between music and gaming, including game soundtracks, music in esports, and virtual concerts.- Website: https://www.billboard.com
- ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers)
ASCAP often publishes reports and articles about the role of music in gaming, including collaborations with artists, licensing deals, and the growth of interactive media as a music platform.- Website: https://www.ascap.com
3. Online Communities and Forums
- Reddit (r/games, r/GameSoundtracks, r/VideoGameMusic)
These subreddits are excellent places to discuss music in video games with fellow enthusiasts. Users share their favorite tracks, discuss how certain songs affect gameplay, and dive into specific soundtracks and game music history.- Websites:
4. Industry Reports and Studies
- NPD Group (Video Game and Music Sales Trends)
NPD Group frequently releases studies about trends in video game sales, as well as the music industry, including how gaming influences music consumption patterns.- Website: https://www.npd.com
- IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry)
IFPI publishes annual reports on global music trends, including the impact of gaming on music streams and sales.- Website: https://www.ifpi.org
5. YouTube Channels
- Game Maker’s Toolkit
This channel explores the mechanics of game design, including the role music plays in creating immersive experiences. - The Sound Architect
A YouTube channel dedicated to game audio, including interviews with composers and sound designers, as well as insights into how music is created for video games. - Video Game Music Online
A YouTube channel that covers video game music and soundtracks, offering analysis and discussions about famous compositions and how they fit within the games.
6. Music Platforms with Gaming Content
- Spotify (Gaming Playlists)
Spotify curates playlists based on gaming soundtracks and music tied to popular games, and many artists have used the platform to promote their music through game-related content.- Website: https://www.spotify.com
- Search for “Gaming Playlists” or “Video Game Soundtracks.”
- Apple Music (Video Game Music Playlists)
Like Spotify, Apple Music has playlists dedicated to game soundtracks and curated selections from video games, providing a listening experience for gaming enthusiasts.- Website: https://www.apple.com/apple-music
7. Academic Journals and Research Papers
- Journal of Sound and Music in Games
A peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the academic study of sound and music in video games. Research papers from scholars discuss everything from in-game music’s emotional impact to the business side of game music.- Website: https://www.journals.sagepub.com/home/gam
By exploring these resources, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the symbiotic relationship between the music and video game industries, the trends shaping their collaboration, and the growing influence of gaming as a platform for music discovery and promotion.
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