It seems hyperbolic, but soundtracks can make or break a game.

Some of the most memorable and much-loved video games in the world areelevated by their scores.

These video games utilize their musical accompaniments to bring genuine depth to the gaming experience.

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That extends to the soundtrack, which had to be both familiar and contemporary.

Theres a comic book quality to the music, which is light, fast-paced, and energetic.

But there are some themes and motifs that also feel as if they belong in a Saturday morning cartoon.

Soft, gentle, and energetic,Phantasy Star IItakes a much quieter approach to its soundtrack.

However,Gunstar Heroesis worth revisiting for its soundtrack, which is both inventive and full of life.

The ice hockey title did everything right, immersing players in the fast-paced action of this dangerous sport.

Thats also the case withNHL 94which is limited in the ways it uses its soundtrack.

And yet, composer Rob Hubbard has made the most of those opportunities.

The music is grand and inviting.

It doesnt take over, but its not subtle either, with Hubbard finding the best of both worlds.

Its definitely an underrated element ofNHL 94which has already done so much to change sporting games on consoles.

Purists will still defend the original incarnation though, which is undeniably bold.

The side-scroller hack-and-slash would be worse off without this specific score.

However, theres some controversy surrounding the music that those new players were greeted with.

Michiru Yamane brought his talents to the game, building upon what had previously been achieved with the franchise.

Rocket Knight Adventuresscore was heavily praised by critics upon the games release and for good reason.

Instead, it barrels straight ahead at full speed.

What he came up with was nothing short of genius.

This is where the DNA of the series was forged, with the sequel demonstrating thatMortal Kombathad genuine longevity.

The soundtrack had to surpass the original and convey both speed and momentum.

Composer Masato Nakamura returned to work on this sequel, and that continuity was much appreciated by the fanbase.

Genesis might have tempered his vision, but something magical was born from those limitations.

Its still among the consoles greatest games.

The hack-and-slash experience brought on Yuzo Koshiro to compose and pick up where original composer Yasuhiro Kawakami left off.

They were big shoes to fill but Koshiro found a unique sound to weave into the narrative.

Theres a subtlety toThe Revenge Of Shinobisscore that makes it especially compelling.

Those gentle themes act as quite an intriguing contrast to the brutality of the action.

Koshiro used outdated technology to bring the music to life and set it in the desired era.

Its impact is thus undeniable.