The year 2023 has been an exceptional year for video games, not only in terms of quality releases but also in terms of the incredible music that accompanies these games. In this article, we will explore some of the finest musical medleys on the Nintendo Switch, covering a wide range of genres and styles. Whether you are a fan of RPGs, classic 2D platformers, or heavy rock, there is something for everyone. We have carefully curated a list of 16 remarkable soundtracks, with two special selections, that have captivated players throughout the year. So, let’s dive into the world of video game music and discover some unforgettable tracks that might just become your new favorites.
Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: 20th Oct 2023 (USA) / 20th Oct 2023 (UK/EU)
Super Mario Bros. Wonder marks the triumphant return of 2D Mario, and its soundtrack is a testament to the game’s excellence. From the very first trailer, the acoustic guitar strums cheerfully, setting the tone for a charming and whimsical musical experience. Each “World” in the game has its own unique theme, showcasing a variety of instruments and musical styles. While the music retains the nostalgic “fun” factor that defined the classic 2D Mario games, it also introduces fresh and innovative elements. Tracks such as ‘Athletic Theme’, ‘Piranha Plants on Parade’, ‘Petal Isles’, and ‘Shining Falls’ are the perfect examples of the game’s eclectic and captivating sound.
Publisher: Team Reptile / Developer: Team Reptile
Release Date: 18th Aug 2023 (USA) / 18th Aug 2023 (UK/EU)
Bomb Rush Cyberfunk draws heavy inspiration from the legendary Jet Set Radio, and its soundtrack lives up to the game’s stylish and charismatic nature. Collaborating with Jet Set Radio composer Hideki Naganuma, several independent musicians, including notable names like 2 Mello, GRRL, Knxwledge, and KiloWatts, have curated a fresh and funky sound for this skating adventure game. The tracks ‘I Wanna Kno’, ‘Condensed Milk’, ‘Feel The Funk (Computer Love)’, and ‘GET ENUF’ will groove their way into your heart and make this soundtrack an essential addition to your summer playlist.
Publisher: Sabotage / Developer: Sabotage
Release Date: 29th Aug 2023 (USA) / 29th Aug 2023 (UK/EU)
Sea of Stars, developed by Eric Brown of The Messenger fame, features an epic and retro-style soundtrack that transports players to a world full of wonder and adventure. The music seamlessly blends nostalgic elements from classic RPGs with its own unique flair. From the catchy and adventurous ‘Trials in the Mist’ to the intense and exhilarating ‘Encounter Elite!’ and the enchanting ‘Serenade of Respite (Night)’, each track enhances the storytelling and immerses players in the captivating universe of Sea of Stars. The inclusion of an entire CD’s worth of cover songs by in-game pirate musicians showcases the profound impact music has on this remarkable game.
Publisher: Humble Bundle / Developer: Summerfall Studios
Release Date: 10th Aug 2023 (USA) / 10th Aug 2023 (UK/EU)
Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical introduces a novel concept in the world of video games, combining the elements of a role-playing game and a musical. With Austin Wintory, the composer of the critically acclaimed Journey, leading the musical direction, this game delivers a truly unique and enchanting audio experience. The vocal tracks in the game, which are the highlights, beautifully capture the essence of the Greek God-starring, Buffy: The Vampire Slayer-inspired story. Additionally, the instrumental songs seamlessly tie the entire musical together, creating a cohesive and immersive gameplay experience. Tracks such as ‘Adrift’, ‘Pan’s Garden’, ‘Look into Me’, and ‘I Can Teach You’ showcase the beauty and artistry of the Stray Gods soundtrack.
Publisher: Team17 / Developer: The Game Kitchen
Release Date: 24th Aug 2023 (USA) / 24th Aug 2023 (UK/EU)
Blasphemous 2, composed by Carlos Viola, continues the tradition of breathtaking soundtracks established by its predecessor. Viola’s masterful use of flamenco-style guitars combined with sombre strings creates an atmosphere of haunting beauty. While building upon the style that made the first game’s soundtrack a hit, Blasphemous 2 introduces a wider range of instrumentation, including more piano, organ, and electric guitar. The tracks ‘Sobre Sus Costales’, ‘Corona de Siete Azahares’, ‘Clavada’, and ‘Lamentos de Arena’ perfectly capture the essence of the game, evoking a sense of mystery, melancholy, and epic adventure.
Publisher: Raw Fury / Developer: Bytten Studio
Release Date: 25th May 2023 (USA) / 25th May 2023 (UK/EU)
Cassette Beasts is a game that revolves around music, as players transform into creatures using a cassette. The soundtrack, composed by Joel Baylis, fully embraces this concept, particularly in the battle themes. Each battle song has two versions: an instrumental version for regular fights and a vocal version that plays when the player and their companion’s Cassette Beasts fuse together. These lyrical moments create a British pop-punk soundtrack that strikes a chord with a whole generation of gamers. With tracks like ‘Wherever We Are Now’, ‘New Wirral (Night)’, ‘Same Old Story’, and ‘Like Chimeras’, the Cassette Beasts soundtrack delivers infectious energy and memorable melodies.
Publisher: Square Enix / Developer: Square Enix
Release Date: 24th Feb 2023 (USA) / 24th Feb 2023 (UK/EU)
Octopath Traveler II, composed by Yasunori Nishiki, showcases an extraordinary level of musical excellence. Building upon the success of the first game’s soundtrack, Nishiki once again proves his talent and creativity. With a staggering 131 songs spread across six discs, the OST offers a remarkable variety of musical styles. From jazz to rock opera to beautiful piano pieces, the music of Octopath Traveler II never fails to captivate and mesmerize. Tracks like ‘Critical Clash II’, ‘Partitio, the Merchant’, ‘Ku, Land of the Scarlet Sunset’, and ‘Octopath Traveler II (Main Theme)’ serve as shining examples of Nishiki’s unparalleled artistry.
Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: 12th May 2023 (USA) / 12th May 2023 (UK/EU)
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, while utilizing music from its predecessor Breath of the Wild, introduces a plethora of new musical compositions that enhance the game’s overall experience. The musical callbacks, a trademark of the Zelda series, resonate particularly well in this installment, immersing players in the world of Hyrule once
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