GameGust asked AI (both ChatGPT and Bard) to research to see what the best 10 songs of all time in gaming soundtracks were. See what these large language models chose for the top 10 best game songs below.
ChatGPT said it cant use the internet to research but it gave me a list valid until 2022, so that leaves out any potential newer games like Tears of the Kingdom.
Bard was able to use the internet to research a more up to date top 10 list.
Lets see if they have similar taste and pick any of our favorites?
In the first section i have provided links (neither AI bots provided links to their choices) to their selections as well as the comments that Bard made about each song it selected (ChatGPT didnt comment on its choices).
In the second section you can listen to embedded YT version of the songs without opening up a bunch of tabs.
Click here to scroll to the second section and skip the first part and see what you think of these selected game songs (cos what does AI know about choosing good songs anyhow?)
First Section: Interrogating the AI bots to see if they have any taste in game music.
Please do some research on the internet on gaming websites and find out the top 10 songs used in game soundtracks of all time. this includes game consoles like nintendo 64 and computer games.
ChatGPT replied with this top 10 list:
I’m sorry for any inconvenience, but as of my last update in January 2022, I don’t have the capability to browse the internet or access real-time information, including current lists or rankings. However, I can provide you with a list of some iconic and popular game soundtracks up until that time. Please note that rankings may vary based on personal preferences, and new releases may have emerged since then.
- “Tetris Theme” – Various versions
- “Super Mario Bros. Theme” – Koji Kondo (Super Mario series)
- “The Legend of Zelda Theme” – Koji Kondo (The Legend of Zelda series)
- “Halo Theme” – Martin O’Donnell (Halo series)
- “Ezio’s Family” – Jesper Kyd (Assassin’s Creed II)
- “Still Alive” – Jonathan Coulton (Portal)
- “One-Winged Angel” – Nobuo Uematsu (Final Fantasy VII)
- “Main Theme” – Michael McCann (Deus Ex: Human Revolution)
- “Megalovania” – Toby Fox (Undertale)
- “Snake Eater” – Norihiko Hibino & Cynthia Harrell (Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater)
Bard replied with this top 10 list (bard also reviewed each song):
please do some research on the internet on gaming websites and find out the top 10 songs used in game soundtracks of all time. this includes game consoles like sega mega drive and nintendo 64 and computer games.
I’ve scoured the depths of the internet, diving into countless gaming websites and forums, and I’ve finally emerged with a contender for the top 10 songs used in game soundtracks of all time, spanning across consoles like Sega Mega Drive, Nintendo 64, and PC! Keep in mind, “best” is subjective, so this list reflects a blend of critical acclaim, cultural impact, and personal favorites.
1. “Gerudo Valley” (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time): Koji Kondo’s timeless masterpiece perfectly captures the serene beauty and desolate mystery of Gerudo Valley. Its haunting melody and subtle instrumentation evoke a sense of wonder and longing.
2. “Hyrule Field” (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time): Another Kondo classic, “Hyrule Field” encapsulates the vastness and freedom of Hyrule with its breezy orchestration and uplifting spirit. It’s instantly recognizable and has become synonymous with the entire Zelda franchise.
3. “Green Hill Zone” (Sonic the Hedgehog): Masato Nakamura’s iconic chiptune explodes with infectious energy, perfectly mirroring Sonic’s speedy gameplay. It’s instantly recognizable and a nostalgic anthem for gamers of a certain era.
4. “One-Winged Angel” (Final Fantasy VII): Nobuo Uematsu’s operatic and dramatic masterpiece for Sephiroth’s battle theme remains a benchmark for boss music. The soaring vocals and intense orchestral swells create an epic and unforgettable experience.
5. “Gangplank Galleon” (Banjo-Kazooie): Grant Kirkhope’s playful and whimsical pirate shanty injects pure joy into Banjo-Kazooie. Its catchy melody and seafaring atmosphere remain etched in many players’ memories.
6. “Bauhaus-Bucht” (Jet Set Radio): Hideki Naganuma’s pulsating drum and bass track perfectly captures the rebellious spirit and frenetic energy of Jet Set Radio. It’s an adrenaline-pumping anthem for rollerbladers and graffiti artists alike.
I believe the song Bard meant here was Jet Set Radio by Hideki Naganuma, as there was no song called “Bauhaus-Bucht”, even when i asked Bard again to provide a link it couldnt find one. So ive linked to Jet Set Radio
7. “Terra’s Theme” (Final Fantasy VI): Uematsu’s melancholic and introspective piano piece paints a poignant picture of Terra’s inner struggles. Its emotional depth and raw vulnerability resonate deeply with players.
8. “Megalovania” (Undertale): Toby Fox’s chiptune battle theme against Sans has become a meme-worthy internet phenomenon. Its unexpected intensity and catchy melody have made it a modern gaming classic.
9. “Lifelight” (Sonic Mania): Tee Lopes’ vibrant and retro-inspired track perfectly captures the spirit of classic Sonic while bringing a fresh energy to the franchise. Its toe-tapping beat and uplifting melodies leave you humming long after the credits roll.
I think Bard got this one mixed up too. “Lifelight” is a song from Smash Brothers, i couldn’t find one from Sonic Mania. Did it mean to pick a Sonic Mania theme song here, perhaps Studiopolis? Or Smash Brothers “Lifelight”?
10. “Aerith’s Theme” (Final Fantasy VII): Uematsu’s tender and heartbreaking piano piece evokes Aerith’s gentle spirit and tragic fate. Its poignant melody and simple beauty remain forever associated with one of gaming’s most beloved characters.
Remember, this is just a taste of the countless amazing songs that have graced the world of gaming. Explore, listen, and discover your own favorites! What did you think of the list? Which iconic gaming tunes would you add?
Second Section: Below are the selections interweaved (1,1,2,2,3,3…) from both lists for you to listen to.
- 1. Tetris Theme
- 1. Gerudo Valley
2. "Super Mario Bros. Theme" - Koji Kondo (Super Mario series)
- 2. “Hyrule Field”: Zelda, Ocarina of Time
3. "Main Theme Song" - Legend of Zelda
ChatGPT didnt specificy from which Zelda game the theme song was that it liked.
So i just chose the theme song from OOT which is truly fantastic.
- 3. “Green Hill Zone” – Sonic The Hedgehog (Sega Mega Drive)
4. "Halo Theme" - Halo
- 4. “One Winged Angel” – Final Fantasy
- 5. “Ezio’s Family” by Jesper Kyd – Assassins Creed
5. "Gangplank Galleon" - Banjo Kazooie
- 6. “Still Alive” – Portal
6. Jet Set Radio Medley (not Bauhaus Bucht) by Hideki Naganuma
7. "One Winged Angel" - Final Fantaay VII
- 7. “Terra’s Theme” – Final Fantasy VI
8. "Main Theme" (Icarus) by Michael McCann - Deus Ex: Human Revolution
- 8. “Undertale” – Megalovania
- 9. “Undertale” – Megalovania
9. Studiopolis? Or Smash Brothers "Lifelight"?
10. "Snake Eater" - Norihiko Hibino & Cynthia Harrell (Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater)
- 10. “Aerith’s Theme” (Final Fantasy VII): Uematsu’s tender and heartbreaking piano piece evokes Aerith’s gentle spirit and tragic fate. Its poignant melody and simple beauty remain forever associated with one of gaming’s most beloved characters.
