2023 has been an extraordinary year for the Nintendo Switch, not just in terms of the innovative games released but also for the exceptional quality of the soundtracks that have accompanied these titles. With the growing recognition of video game music globally, this year has seen soundtracks that resonate beyond the screen, moving listeners with immersive and diverse musical experiences.
One shining example of this year's musical prowess is "Super Mario Bros. Wonder," which has brought 2D Mario to life in a way that honors its rich history through sound. The game's soundtrack captures the charm and playfulness of the Mario franchise with a fresh twist, with each in-game "World" boasting a unique theme and sound selection. Fans have raved about the game's 'Athletic Theme' and 'Petal Isles,' which are standout tracks that fortify the game's magical feel.
Another game that has thrilled fans with its tunes is "Bomb Rush Cyberfunk," which features a funky soundtrack inspired by the classic "Jet Set Radio." A mix of independent musicians, including the original Jet Set composer Hideki Naganuma, has come together to craft a score that is both fresh and nostalgic. Tracks such as 'I Wanna Kno' and 'Feel The Funk (Computer Love)' guarantee to keep players grooving well after the game is over.
The indie game "Sea of Stars" makes its mark with Eric Brown’s mastery over retro-style music, creating an epic auditory journey that channels the spirit of classic RPG soundtracks. The game features both pulse-pounding boss themes and serene overworld music that stays true to the genre's roots. The soundtrack even includes an entire CD's worth of cover songs, performed in-game by pirate musicians, providing a depth to the experience rarely seen in game music.
Perhaps one of the most unique entries of the year is "Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical." Under the guidance of Austin Wintory, the composer behind the acclaimed "Journey," Stray Gods has established the viability of the musical genre in video game form. Beyond its standout vocal tracks, the game offers an array of instrumental pieces that add emotional depth to an already captivating narrative.
"Blasphemous 2" has stunned players with a soundtrack rich in flamenco-style guitars and somber strings, broadening its musical pallet with additional instruments including piano and electric guitar. Composer Carlos Viola has built upon the sound of the original "Blasphemous" to deliver another haunting score that brings the game's dark and poignant world to life.
"Cassette Beasts" integrates music right into its core gameplay with players transforming using cassettes. Composer Joel Baylis has infused the game's battle themes with British pop-punk vibes, giving every fight a distinctive sound - especially when characters fuse together, triggering vocal versions of the songs that accentuate key moments in the game.
"Octopath Traveler II" arguably stands among the year's best, with Yasunori Nishiki surpassing his own work from the original game. With a vast compilation of 131 tracks spanning six discs, the game explores a rich tapestry of musical styles, including jazz, rock opera, and solo piano pieces, showcasing breathtaking variation and depth.
Lastly, "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" has taken the familiar musical landscape of "Breath of the Wild" and enriched it, addressing previous criticisms by incorporating new, more prominent musical pieces. Fans have delighted in the game's fresh dungeon themes, soaring overworld tracks, and the chilling sounds of the Depths. The game’s soundtrack serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Zelda's musical prowess, ripe for an official release.
These standout titles represent only a fraction of the diverse array of soundtracks available on the Nintendo Switch this year. Whether through the rhythms of an urban funk odyssey, the melodic lines of a fantastical RPG, or the enchanting themes of a familiar kingdom, the music of these games has the power to transport players on an auditory adventure as captivating as the games themselves. It is abundantly clear that the Nintendo Switch's library of soundtracks has resonated deeply with not only gamers but music lovers in 2023, marking another remarkable year for video game music on the platform.
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