Nintendo Switch Music: Games With Best Soundtracks

The Nintendo Switch, guys, isn't just about amazing gameplay and portability; it's also a treasure trove of incredible music. From epic orchestral scores to catchy chiptune melodies, the Switch boasts a diverse range of soundtracks that can elevate your gaming experience. So, let's dive into some of the games on the Nintendo Switch that are particularly known for their outstanding music.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

When discussing Nintendo Switch music, it's impossible not to start with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This game redefined the Zelda franchise in many ways, and its soundtrack is no exception. Composed primarily by Manaka Kataoka, with contributions from Yasuaki Iwata and Hajime Wakai, the music of Breath of the Wild is characterized by its gentle piano melodies, ambient soundscapes, and dynamic shifts that reflect the game's open-world environment. Unlike previous Zelda games that relied on bombastic orchestral themes, Breath of the Wild opts for a more subdued and atmospheric approach. This minimalistic style perfectly complements the game's sense of exploration and solitude, creating a truly immersive experience for the player.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the soundtrack is its use of silence. In many areas of the game, there is no music at all, allowing the sounds of nature – the wind rustling through the trees, the chirping of birds, the gentle lapping of waves – to take center stage. This creates a heightened sense of realism and encourages players to truly connect with the world around them. When music does play, it is often subtle and understated, gradually building in intensity as the player approaches a point of interest or engages in combat. The piano is the primary instrument used throughout the soundtrack, providing a delicate and melancholic quality that perfectly captures the game's themes of loss, resilience, and hope. The melodies are often simple and repetitive, but they are incredibly effective at evoking a range of emotions in the player. Whether you're exploring the vast Hyrule Field, battling a fearsome Guardian, or simply gazing at the sunset from atop a mountain, the music of Breath of the Wild will stay with you long after you've finished playing.

The soundtrack also features a number of memorable themes that are associated with specific characters and locations. Zelda's theme is particularly beautiful and poignant, reflecting her strength, wisdom, and unwavering determination to protect Hyrule. The theme of Hyrule Castle is both grand and tragic, hinting at the kingdom's former glory and the devastation that has befallen it. And the themes of the four Divine Beasts are suitably epic and awe-inspiring, capturing the scale and power of these ancient machines. Overall, the music of Breath of the Wild is a masterpiece of game audio design. It is a soundtrack that is both beautiful and functional, perfectly complementing the game's visuals and gameplay to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Super Mario Odyssey

Next up, let's talk about Super Mario Odyssey. If you're looking for Nintendo Switch music that's bursting with energy and pure joy, this game has you covered. The soundtrack to Super Mario Odyssey is an absolute blast from start to finish. Composed by Naoto Kubo, Shiho Fujii, and Koji Kondo (a legend in the world of Mario music), the game features a diverse range of musical styles, from upbeat jazz to catchy pop tunes to soaring orchestral arrangements. Each kingdom in the game has its own unique musical identity, reflecting its distinct culture and environment. The music is incredibly infectious and will have you tapping your feet and humming along as you explore the game's colorful and whimsical worlds.

One of the standout tracks from the soundtrack is "Jump Up, Super Star!", the game's main theme song. This upbeat and jazzy tune is an instant classic, perfectly capturing the spirit of adventure and excitement that defines the Mario franchise. The song features a catchy melody, a driving rhythm, and a memorable vocal performance by Kate Davis. It's the kind of song that gets stuck in your head for days, and you won't mind one bit. But the soundtrack is so much more than just "Jump Up, Super Star!". Each kingdom in the game features a wealth of original compositions that are just as memorable and enjoyable. The music of New Donk City is appropriately jazzy and urban, while the music of Tostarena is infused with Latin rhythms and melodies. The music of the Luncheon Kingdom is quirky and playful, while the music of Bowser's Kingdom is appropriately menacing and dramatic.

The soundtrack also features a number of clever remixes and reinterpretations of classic Mario themes. For example, the music of the Wooded Kingdom features a beautiful orchestral arrangement of the Super Mario World theme, while the music of the Moon Kingdom features a haunting and ethereal version of the Super Mario Bros. underground theme. These remixes are a treat for long-time fans of the Mario franchise, adding an extra layer of nostalgia and appreciation to the game's already outstanding soundtrack. Overall, the music of Super Mario Odyssey is a triumph of game audio design. It is a soundtrack that is both fun and sophisticated, perfectly complementing the game's visuals and gameplay to create a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're a long-time fan of the Mario franchise or a newcomer to the series, you're sure to be captivated by the music of Super Mario Odyssey.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is another must-mention when discussing great Nintendo Switch music. This RPG is known for its sweeping landscapes, epic story, and, of course, its incredible soundtrack. Composed by a team of talented musicians, including Yasunori Mitsuda, ACE (Tomori Kudo, CHiCO), Kenji Hiramatsu, and Manami Kiyota, the music of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a blend of orchestral arrangements, electronic soundscapes, and J-Pop melodies. The soundtrack is incredibly diverse and dynamic, reflecting the game's vast and varied world. Whether you're exploring the lush forests of Gormott, the icy plains of Uraya, or the bustling city of Argentum, the music will transport you to another world.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the soundtrack is its use of vocal tracks. Several of the game's key themes feature soaring vocal performances by Japanese singers, adding an extra layer of emotion and drama to the music. These vocal tracks are particularly effective during the game's cutscenes and boss battles, heightening the sense of tension and excitement. But the soundtrack is so much more than just its vocal tracks. Each area of the game features a wealth of original compositions that are just as memorable and enjoyable. The music of Gormott is lush and vibrant, reflecting the area's abundant flora and fauna. The music of Uraya is cold and desolate, reflecting the area's harsh and unforgiving environment. And the music of Argentum is lively and energetic, reflecting the city's bustling atmosphere.

The soundtrack also features a number of memorable themes that are associated with specific characters and events. Rex's theme is particularly heroic and uplifting, reflecting his determination to protect Pyra and save the world. Pyra's theme is both beautiful and melancholic, reflecting her mysterious past and her uncertain future. And the themes of the various antagonists are suitably menacing and foreboding. Overall, the music of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a masterpiece of game audio design. It is a soundtrack that is both epic and intimate, perfectly complementing the game's visuals and gameplay to create a truly unforgettable experience. If you're a fan of RPGs, you owe it to yourself to experience the music of Xenoblade Chronicles 2.

Other Notable Soundtracks

Of course, there are many other games on the Nintendo Switch with fantastic soundtracks. Here are a few more that deserve a mention:

• Hollow Knight: A haunting and atmospheric score that perfectly complements the game's melancholic world.
• Ori and the Blind Forest/Ori and the Will of the Wisps: Beautiful and emotional orchestral scores that enhance the games' breathtaking visuals.
• Cadence of Hyrule: A rhythm-based spin-off of the Zelda series with remixes of classic Zelda tunes.
• Octopath Traveler: A stunning orchestral soundtrack that evokes the spirit of classic JRPGs.

In conclusion, the Nintendo Switch is home to a wealth of incredible music that can enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're a fan of epic orchestral scores, catchy pop tunes, or atmospheric soundscapes, there's something for everyone on the Switch. So, next time you're looking for a new game to play, be sure to check out its soundtrack – you might just discover your new favorite album!

I hope this article helps you guys find some amazing Nintendo Switch music to enjoy!