#15. Parasite Eve – Arise Within You

The battle theme of Parasite Eve, Arise Within You, has little emphasis on melody. Rather, composer Yoko Shimomura opted for a piano-led electronica that joins up with a steady bass riff.

The result is an entertaining track that also remains somewhat ambient. It’s a strange theme to have when you consider the game’s premise as a horror RPG set in New York City. However, it’s a fusion that works well, the game so memorable in the first place.

#14. Dark Souls – Firelink Shrine

Dark Souls is one of the most influential games of its generation. Besides its intricate level designs and an engrossing take on dark fantasy, the title’s focus on hardcore gameplay elements became an endearing feature to many fans.

Within this desolate world of the undead, the “Firelink Shrine“ acts as a safe haven for players to escape the harrowing enemies that roam the lands. Yet this is just a brief moment of respite, and the music drives this feeling home.

You can breathe easy, but who knows what horrors await when you pick up your sword once more?

#13. The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky – Factory City of Zeiss

Towering high above the city streets is a massive orbal factory where everything from lighting fixtures to airships is mass-produced. Out of many of Trails in the Sky‘s town themes, “Factory City of Zeiss” stands out for its catchy and relaxing tunes.

Sure, you’re walking into an industrial-era city with lots of mechanical bits and bobs, but technological innovation has improved plenty of lives. Seeing as the residents of this town are also happy, perhaps progress isn’t so dangerous after all.

#12. Radiant Historia – Mechanical Kingdom

The hero Stocke first begins his journey in Radiant Historia as an officer of Alistel. Unlike most towns you start out in, this place boasts a distinct steampunk aura. Many of the city walls are built from steel and through technology, which can seem in direct contrast to the game’s eventual introduction of magical time travel.

Nevertheless, “Mechanical Kingdom” sets the right atmosphere for an epic journey through time and space. The subdued musical notes of the harp in particular hint at the presence of the divine, which Stocke’s adventure pivots around.

#11. Tales of Berseria – True Will

Tales of Berseria uses its protagonist Velvet’s theme as a prominent musical motif through various pieces in the game’s soundtrack. Her story is motivated by tragedy and a burning passion for revenge, but is also guided by her longing for family.

“True Will” plays at a pivotal moment in the story, in which the piano beats of her theme are instead replaced with soft chimes. While initially calm and innocent, the music grows in intensity, lead by distinct violins, eventually landing on a satisfying and emotional crescendo before falling back to its faint chimes.

NEXT: #10-#6