You could say that music and video games go hand in hand. Over the years there have been many songs that have become somewhat synonymous with video games and the impact that music has on the player and the game itself cannot be underestimated. Music can help to immerse a player, so they really feel a part of the game.
Furthermore, there is also the belief that music can make a player more productive and better at the game. In fact, the impact of music in games ranging from casino to video titles is not to be ignored. It has been noted that game developers have actually recognised music as being integral in making the perfect gaming experience.
Therefore, in light of the fact on how important music seems to be, we’ve devised a list of some of the best songs used in video games over the years.
Far Away – Red Dead Redemption
Far Away, by Jose Gonzalez, is one of the finest songs from the award-winning game Red Dead Redemption. It’s a guitar laden track which really suits the whole old-west style of game that RDR is, while the lyrics also link in to the character and the mindset of the protagonist. Everything about the whispers cow boy and the twang really helps to make it a masterpiece.
Ain’t Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang – Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
The Grand Theft Auto franchise is one of the most successful in gaming history and its soundtracks are up there with the very best too. Rockstar’s second entry on this list is fully deserved as Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg’s collaboration for San Andreas perfectly accompanies the thrilling action enjoyed by a player playing the game. From driving a tank to just cruisin’ thru’ the hood, Ain’t Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang is fitting for all occasions.
Ring of Fire – Tony Hawk’s Underground 2
What a game series the Tony Hawk’s Underground set was. It’s gone down in history as one of the most unique and successful, with millions of players spending hours perfecting all manner of tricks. While the game series itself moved more towards a rock sound, they made an exception for this Johnny Cash track and it proved to be a great decision. It may be a country song, but it really had the ability to appeal to most people, and this is what makes it one of the finest tracks used in a video game.
Song 2 – FIFA ‘98
The FIFA game franchise is still as popular today as it’s always been, if not more popular. Heading back to FIFA ’98, Blur’s Song 2 became synonymous with the game, often appearing at during the starting sequence. The track’s ability to energise and invigorate the player is superb, making it perfectly fitting for a football game. It certainly gave the player the impetus to go and win games, and it will come as no surprise that the track is played at various football stadiums pre-match.
Riders On The Storm – Need For Speed Underground 2
You won’t find a more fitting track for a game than Riders On The Storm by Snoop Dogg featuring The Doors. The song, which appears on Need For Speed Underground 2, arguable the franchise’s most successful instalment, is perfect for cursing around the streets looking for an illegal race to take part in. Snoop Dogg helps to fit the track to the game with his lyrics superbly.
