The year 2023 has seen a plethora of high-quality video game releases on the Nintendo Switch. However, in addition to the gameplay and visuals, many of these games have also delivered outstanding soundtracks. In this article, we will explore and analyze some of the best musical medleys featured in Nintendo Switch games this year. From RPGs to 2D platformers and from heavy rock to orchestral compositions, there’s something for everyone’s musical taste. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the mesmerizing world of video game music.
Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: 20th Oct 2023 (USA) / 20th Oct 2023 (UK/EU)
Super Mario Bros. Wonder marks the return of 2D Mario in top form, and its soundtrack is no exception. From the moment we heard the cheerful strumming of an acoustic guitar in the very first trailer, we knew that the music would perfectly capture the charm and whimsy of Wonder. Each “World” in the game has its own unique theme and selection of instruments, providing a fresh take on the iconic Mario music while invoking a sense of nostalgia and joy. Recommended tracks from the soundtrack include ‘Athletic Theme’, ‘Piranha Plants on Parade’, ‘Petal Isles’, and ‘Shining Falls’.
Publisher: Team Reptile / Developer: Team Reptile
Release Date: 18th Aug 2023 (USA) / 18th Aug 2023 (UK/EU)
Inspired by Jet Set Radio, Bomb Rush Cyberfunk enlisted the talents of Jet Set composer Hideki Naganuma and several independent musicians to curate a fresh and funky sound. With artists like 2 Mello, GRRL, Knxwledge, and KiloWatts on board, the game’s soundtrack immerses players in a skating adventure filled with style and charisma. This music is sure to find a place on our summer playlists for years to come. Recommended tracks worth checking out include ‘I Wanna Kno’, ‘Condensed Milk’, ‘Feel The Funk (Computer Love)’, and ‘GET ENUF’.
Publisher: Sabotage / Developer: Sabotage
Release Date: 29th Aug 2023 (USA) / 29th Aug 2023 (UK/EU)
Sea of Stars, the spiritual successor to The Messenger, features a captivating soundtrack by Eric Brown. As a retro-style master, Brown delivers epic boss music, catchy overworld themes, and cheerful town tunes that perfectly complement the game’s atmosphere. The music in Sea of Stars plays such an integral role in the overall experience that there is even an entire CD dedicated to cover songs by in-game pirate musicians. The soundtrack stands as one of the best in 2023, even without the contributions of renowned composer Yasunori Mitsuda. Recommended tracks include ‘Trials in the Mist’, ‘Encounter Elite!’, ‘Serenade of Respite (Night)’, and ‘Volcanic Pursit’.
Publisher: Humble Bundle / Developer: Summerfall Studios
Release Date: 10th Aug 2023 (USA) / 10th Aug 2023 (UK/EU)
Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical presents a unique concept for a video game – a musical! Led by Austin Wintory, the composer of Journey, the game’s musical style works exceptionally well within the gaming medium. While the vocal tracks steal the spotlight in this Greek God-starring, Buffy: The Vampire Slayer-inspired adventure, the instrumental songs bring depth and cohesion to the overall experience. The soundtrack features beautiful, calming melodies and heartfelt compositions that tie the game together. Notable tracks include ‘Adrift’, ‘Pan’s Garden’, ‘Look into Me’, and ‘I Can Teach You’.
Publisher: Team17 / Developer: The Game Kitchen
Release Date: 24th Aug 2023 (USA) / 24th Aug 2023 (UK/EU)
Blasphemous 2, composed by Carlos Viola, delivers a stunning soundtrack that combines flamenco-style guitars and somber strings. Building upon the success of the original Blasphemous’ soundtrack, Viola introduces a greater variety of instruments and styles in the sequel. The incorporation of piano, organ, and electric guitar enriches the overall musical experience. Carlos Viola’s work on Blasphemous 2, as well as his contributions to Blasphemous and The Last Door, deserves recognition for their captivating compositions. Key tracks worth mentioning include ‘Sobre Sus Costales’, ‘Corona de Siete Azahares’, ‘Clavada’, and ‘Lamentos de Arena’.
Publisher: Raw Fury / Developer: Bytten Studio
Release Date: 25th May 2023 (USA) / 25th May 2023 (UK/EU)
In Cassette Beasts, music plays a central role in the game’s mechanics, as players transform into creatures using a cassette. Composer Joel Baylis brilliantly embraces this concept by infusing the game’s music, especially the battle themes, with British pop-punk influences. Each battle song features both instrumental and vocal versions, creating memorable lyrical moments that resonate with players. Cassette Beasts’ soundtrack captures the essence of the game’s transformative theme while delivering an exhilarating musical experience. Recommended tracks include ‘Wherever We Are Now’, ‘New Wirral (Night)’, ‘Same Old Story’, and ‘Like Chimeras’.
Publisher: Square Enix / Developer: Square Enix
Release Date: 24th Feb 2023 (USA) / 24th Feb 2023 (UK/EU)
Octopath Traveler II features one of the standout soundtracks of the year, composed by Yasunori Nishiki. With a staggering 131 songs spread across six discs, the OST showcases Nishiki’s incredible talent and creativity. The soundtrack offers a vast range of musical genres, from jazz and rock opera to beautiful piano compositions. The variation and depth of Octopath Traveler II’s music are truly impressive and contribute to the immersive experience of the game. Noteworthy tracks from the soundtrack include ‘Critical Clash II’, ‘Partitio, the Merchant’, ‘Ku, Land of the Scarlet Sunset’, and ‘Octopath Traveler II (Main Theme)’.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: 12th May 2023 (USA) / 12th May 2023 (UK/EU)
While The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom incorporates music from Breath of the Wild, it also introduces new compositions to satisfy fans who craved more musical variety. The game’s musical callbacks and specific dungeon and boss themes showcase the franchise’s mastery of creating memorable melodies. From the atmospheric piano melodies during underwater exploration to the captivating theme of the base town, the soundtrack enhances the gameplay experience. The Legend of Zelda continues to demonstrate its ability to captivate players through its mesmerizing soundscape.
In the year 2023, Nintendo Switch games have delivered exceptional soundtracks that deserve recognition. From the nostalgic charm of Super Mario Bros. Wonder to the funky vibes of Bomb Rush Cyberfunk, each game on this list offers
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