Often when I’m riding the rail to or from work, while I’d love to be gaming, it’s much easier to just listen to some tunes. You might, at this point, be asking what kind of music I listen to during my commute. I’m here to tell you that, while I often listen to a variety of things, my favorites are usually songs from video games. Here are five of the ones that I crank the volume up all the way when they come on. I’ve included links to each song on the title, so feel free to give them a listen and hear for yourself.
Bare Its Fangs — Tales of Destiny
To be honest, I’m not quite sure what really gets me going about this song. While I really did enjoy this RPG, it was never one of my favorites. In fact, I often forget what it’s from when it comes on. That does not however negate the fact that it’s a pretty rockin’ battle theme. There’s nothing quite like some good battle music to get your blood pumping.
Ocean Theme — The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
Say what you will about the sailing sections of this game, I would often sail in no particular direction just so I could listen to this song. Playing it while I’m traveling someplace makes it seem like I’m going on some kind of quest even when I’m doing quite the opposite. Having quite possibly one of the best soundtracks in the entire Legend of Zelda series, this is one of the best tracks available. If you don’t get fired up by this song, you might need to check your pulse.
Magnet Man — Mega Man 3
Honestly, you could just put the entire Mega Man series under this slot, but this is the one I listen to the most. I listen to it so much that I actually have three completely different versions of it. This series, with full respect to Zelda and Mario, has some of the best music of any found on the Nintendo Entertainment System. Even though the original version is pretty short and sweet, it’s still long enough to have keep me entertained for a stop or two.
Rainbow Road — Mario Kart: Double Dash
While one of the weaker games in the Mario Kart series, the Rainbow Road theme from this game is undeniably awesome. It takes the relatively mellow theme from the same track in Mario Kart 64, picks up the pace and gives you the extra boost you need to beat the Special Cup. It also reminds me of how much all my friends hate me when I choose that course while we’re playing the game.
Space Station Level — VVVVVV
One of my favorite games of 2010 also had a really amazing soundtrack. The main song in VVVVVV, which you hear pretty frequently throughout the game is easy to get sucked into. I’ve found myself putting this one on loop and just listening to it for a while. If you haven’t played this game, you can find it for your computer or 3DS. You’ll be glad you did and make sure to wear headphones so you can rock out to this song.
Yes, the dreaded Rainbow Road!
Watch out for the edges! =)