The Enduring Influence of Rock and Metal in Video Game Soundtracks

The dynamic fusion of rock and metal with video game soundtracks has profoundly shaped the auditory experience of countless players. From intense battle anthems to atmospheric background scores, the raw energy and intricate compositions of these genres have enriched the immersive worlds of gaming. This article delves into several standout examples, illustrating how developers and composers have masterfully woven heavy music into the fabric of their creations, leaving an indelible mark on players' memories and influencing a generation of music lovers.

Dive into the Riff-Heavy Realms of Gaming Soundscapes

The gaming world recently acknowledged the passing of a true icon, Ozzy Osbourne, on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76. Although his direct contributions to video games were limited, his pioneering spirit in heavy metal, notably with Black Sabbath, undeniably cast a long shadow over the industry's musical direction. His influence is evident in numerous game scores that embrace the power of rock and metal, resonating deeply with fans and fostering a new generation's appreciation for these powerful sounds.

First, from the realm of RPGs, the 2001 classic Final Fantasy X delivers an unexpected punch with its track, "Otherworld." While the game's score often features melancholic piano melodies and delicate string arrangements, "Otherworld" shatters this tranquility, erupting with a powerful heavy metal riff during the opening cinematic. This track, composed by the renowned Nobuo Uematsu with lyrics by Alexander O Smith and vocals by Bill Muir of xtillidiex, instantly injects high-octane energy, setting an electrifying tone that distinguishes it within the series' musical tapestry.

Venturing into the fighting game arena, Killer Instinct Gold (1996) for the Nintendo 64 provided many young players with their first taste of rock and metal. "The Instinct," crafted by composer Robin Beanland, masterfully builds suspense, transforming from a subtle background theme into a full-blown melodic guitar wail as the title screen appears. This track showcases Beanland’s exceptional talent in utilizing the N64’s audio capabilities to deliver a sound remarkably close to the arcade version. Later, Mick Gordon's reimagining for the 2013 revival further amplified its impact, demonstrating the track's enduring appeal.

Next, we plunge into the chaotic intensity of Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (2013) with "Rules of Nature." While I haven't personally played this game, its soundtrack, particularly this track, is celebrated for its sheer brilliance. It exemplifies the gradual build-up common in rock and metal, starting with melodic vocals by Jason Charles Miller before erupting into an unforgettable chorus. The song’s widespread popularity even spawned the "Rules of Nature Goes With Everything" meme, humorously illustrating its versatile power. Interestingly, Miller himself remained unaware of this phenomenon for years, largely due to uncredited vocal work.

From a more unconventional corner, Alan Wake 2 (2023) features "Herald of Darkness" by the fictional band Old Gods of Asgard, a collaboration with the real Finnish band Poets of the Fall. This incredibly niche yet impactful track, as highlighted by Senior Editor Robin Valentine, plays a crucial role in Remedy's interconnected game universe. Its inclusion transforms gameplay into a "playable rock opera," offering a theatrical and surreal glimpse into the protagonist's mind, cementing the studio’s deep affection for heavy metal and classic rock.

No discussion of video game metal would be complete without Doom (2016). Despite my unfamiliarity with the gameplay, Mick Gordon's soundtrack for this title is a staple in my personal playlists. His "Rip and Tear" track stands out with its incredibly dense guitars and drums. It's almost ironic that id Software initially resisted the idea of a metal soundtrack, fearing it would be "corny," contrasting sharply with the original Doom's metal leanings. Fortunately, Gordon's persistence resulted in an unforgettably powerful and fitting score that perfectly embodies the game's aggressive nature.

Moving to the mobile gaming landscape, Nikke: Goddess of Victory (2022), while known for its provocative character designs, boasts a surprisingly robust and engaging soundtrack. "You Can't Stop Us," a heavy track crafted by Korean composer Cosmograph (now a full-time member of Shift Up, alongside NieN), serves as the theme for the formidable boss Chatterbox. This song perfectly mirrors the relentless energy of its in-game adversary, maintaining a high-octane tempo throughout, effectively capturing the essence of the game’s intense encounters.

Finally, representing the rhythm game genre, DJ MAX Respect V (2020) features NieN's "Stay Alive." This track exemplifies the genre's eclectic musical range, bridging eurodance, drum and bass, and pop with hard-hitting rock. "Stay Alive," part of the V Extension 4, conjures a nostalgic 2010s rock radio vibe with its heavy drums and piercing guitar riffs. It masterfully shifts between guttural growls and melodic vocals, creating a dynamic sonic journey that is both intense and captivating, making it a must-have for any high-energy playlist.

The integration of rock and metal music within video games transcends mere background noise; it forms an integral part of the player's emotional and sensory experience. These tracks, whether providing an adrenaline rush during intense combat or setting a dramatic scene, demonstrate the powerful synergy between sound and gameplay. The influence of pioneering artists like Ozzy Osbourne has paved the way for composers like Nobuo Uematsu, Robin Beanland, Mick Gordon, Cosmograph, and Daisuke Ishiwatari to explore and expand the boundaries of game music. This continuing evolution ensures that the heavy, electrifying pulse of rock and metal will remain a vital force in the ever-expanding universe of video games, proving that a strong soundtrack is not just an accompaniment, but a core component of unforgettable gaming moments.