Top 10 Songs That Became Famous Thanks To Video Games

Video games have come a long way since their humble beginnings, evolving from simple pixelated experiences to immersive, cinematic adventures. As the gaming industry has grown, so too has the role of music within these virtual worlds. From catchy chiptunes to full orchestral scores, music has become an integral part of the gaming experience, and in some cases, has even catapulted songs to fame. In this article, we celebrate the top 10 songs that gained popularity and entered the cultural lexicon, thanks in no small part to their association with iconic video games.

10. Simple and Clean by Utada Hikaru – Kingdom Hearts (2002)

When Disney and Square Enix joined forces to create the crossover RPG Kingdom Hearts, it was a match made in heaven. The game’s theme song, Simple and Clean (or “Hikari” in Japanese) by Japanese-American singer Utada Hikaru, perfectly encapsulates the game’s blend of whimsy, adventure, and emotion. The track’s catchy pop melody and powerful vocals resonated with players worldwide, turning it into a fan favorite and propelling Utada Hikaru into the international spotlight.

9. Still Alive by GLaDOS (Ellen McLain) – Portal (2007)

Valve’s innovative puzzle-platformer Portal captivated players with its mind-bending mechanics and dark humor. The game’s end credits song, Still Alive, performed by the game’s antagonist GLaDOS (voiced by Ellen McLain), was an unexpected hit. The cheeky, upbeat tune, written by Jonathan Coulton, recounts the game’s events from GLaDOS’s perspective, becoming an instant classic and solidifying its place in gaming history.

8. Snake Eater by Cynthia Harrell – Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (2004)

The Metal Gear Solid series is renowned for its cinematic storytelling and intricate gameplay, and the third installment, Snake Eater, is no exception. The game’s theme song, Snake Eater, sung by Cynthia Harrell, is a sultry, Bond-esque ballad that perfectly captures the game’s Cold War-era espionage setting. The track’s blend of dramatic orchestration and Harrell’s powerful vocals has made it a standout in the series and a memorable gaming anthem.

7. Baba Yetu by Christopher Tin (feat. Soweto Gospel Choir) – Civilization IV (2005)

The Civilization series is known for its grand strategy gameplay, allowing players to build and guide entire civilizations throughout history. Civilization IV’s Baba Yetu, composed by Christopher Tin and performed by the Soweto Gospel Choir, is a soaring, uplifting rendition of the Lord’s Prayer in Swahili. The song’s unique blend of traditional African music and Western choral elements struck a chord with players and critics alike, earning it a Grammy Award in 2011 and making it the first piece of video game music to win this prestigious accolade.

6. Megalovania by Toby Fox – Undertale (2015)

Undertale, the indie RPG developed by Toby Fox, took the gaming world by storm with its unique blend of humor, engaging combat system, and emotional storytelling. Megalovania, the game’s climactic battle theme, has since become synonymous with the title. The catchy, high-energy chiptune track perfectly encapsulates the game’s frenetic energy and has become a popular choice for remixes, covers, and fan tributes.

5. Exile Vilify by The National – Portal 2 (2011)

The sequel to the critically acclaimed Portal, Portal 2 continued to push the boundaries of innovative gameplay and storytelling. The melancholic Exile Vilify, performed by indie rock band The National, plays during a hidden in-game easter egg, adding depth and emotion to the game’s narrative. The haunting track gained significant attention from fans and critics alike, further cementing The National’s reputation as a band unafraid to explore new creative territory.

4. Ezio’s Family by Jesper Kyd – Assassin’s Creed II (2009)

Assassin’s Creed II, set in Renaissance Italy, is often regarded as one of the best entries in the long-running series. Ezio’s Family, composed by Jesper Kyd, serves as the game’s central theme and embodies the epic, sweeping nature of the Assassin’s Creed franchise. The emotional, evocative track has become a fan favorite, and its haunting melody continues to be associated with the series as a whole.

3. Late Goodbye by Poets of the Fall – Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne (2003)

Max Payne 2, the sequel to the groundbreaking noir-inspired shooter, brought back the series’ signature blend of slow-motion gunplay and gritty storytelling. Finnish rock band Poets of the Fall contributed Late Goodbye, a melancholic, atmospheric track that captures the game’s moody, noir-infused tone. The song plays during the game’s end credits and has become a beloved part of the Max Payne legacy, showcasing the band’s talent for crafting emotionally resonant music.

2. City Escape by Crush 40 – Sonic Adventure 2 (2001)

Sonic Adventure 2, released for the Sega Dreamcast, introduced fans to a new era of high-speed platforming with Sonic the Hedgehog and friends. City Escape, composed and performed by Crush 40, accompanies the game’s iconic opening level as Sonic races through the streets of San Francisco. The track’s energetic guitar riffs and catchy melody perfectly capture the game’s sense of speed and adventure, making it an enduring favorite among Sonic fans.

1. Want You Gone by GLaDOS (Ellen McLain) – Portal 2 (2011)

Rounding out our list is another standout track from Portal 2, Want You Gone. The game’s end credits song, once again performed by GLaDOS (voiced by Ellen McLain) and written by Jonathan Coulton, serves as a spiritual successor to Still Alive. With its catchy melody, clever lyrics, and tongue-in-cheek humor, Want You Gone further solidified Portal’s reputation for memorable, genre-defining music.

There you have it—ten unforgettable songs that have earned their place in music history, thanks to their association with beloved video games. These tracks not only enhance their respective gaming experiences but have also transcended the medium to resonate with fans and newcomers alike. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, we can look forward to even more memorable music that will capture the hearts and imaginations of players around the world. Game on!

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