The Greatest Video Game Music cover

The Greatest Video Game Music

London Philharmonic Orchestra

Album 2011

About this album

Sound: "Orchestral arrangements breathe new life into beloved video game themes, merging nostalgia with classical grandeur."

Where they were

Released in 2011, this album marked a significant moment for the London Philharmonic Orchestra as they ventured into the realm of video game music. It came at a time when video game soundtracks were gaining recognition as legitimate art forms, following their successful orchestral concerts and recordings of film scores.

Why it matters

This album played a pivotal role in legitimizing video game music within the classical genre, showcasing how these compositions could stand alongside traditional orchestral works. Its reception included positive reviews from major outlets, helping to elevate the profile of video game composers and influencing future projects that blended classical music with gaming culture.

Essential tracks

  • "Final Fantasy VIII: Liberi Fatali" — This track represents one of the most iconic pieces in video game history, known for its dramatic orchestration and emotional depth, highlighting the power of gaming soundtracks.
  • "Legend of Zelda: Suite" — The suite captures the adventurous spirit of the beloved franchise, showcasing memorable melodies that resonate deeply with fans and gamers alike.
  • "Halo 3: One Final Effort" — This piece exemplifies the epic scope of the Halo series, blending sweeping orchestral themes with a sense of urgency that mirrors the game's narrative.
  • "Super Mario Galaxy: Gusty Garden Galaxy" — Celebrated for its whimsical charm, this track encapsulates the joyful exploration inherent in the Mario games while showcasing intricate orchestral arrangements.
  • "Call of Duty - Modern Warfare 2: Theme" — The intense and dramatic theme underscores the game's high-stakes action, illustrating how video game music can evoke powerful emotions similar to film scores.

Release Date

January 1, 2011

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Advent Rising: Muse 3:42
  2. 2 Legend of Zelda: Suite 4:17
  3. 3 Call of Duty - Modern Warfare 2: Theme 3:30
  4. 4 Angry Birds: Main Theme 3:17
  5. 5 Final Fantasy VIII: Liberi Fatali 3:08
  6. 6 Super Mario Bros: Themes 4:11
  7. 7 Uncharted - Drake's Fortune: Nate's Theme 1:49
  8. 8 Grand Theft Auto IV: Soviet Connection 3:04
  9. 9 World of Warcraft: Seasons of War 3:12
  10. 10 Metal Gear Solid: Sons of Liberty Theme 3:55
  11. 11 Tetris: Theme 3:26
  12. 12 Battlefield 2: Theme 4:39
  13. 13 Elder Scrolls: Oblivion 1:51
  14. 14 Call of Duty 4 - Modern Warfare: Main Menu Theme 2:16
  15. 15 Mass Effect 2: Suicide Mission 4:48
  16. 16 Splinter Cell: Conviction 2:47
  17. 17 Final Fantasy: Main Theme 2:40
  18. 18 Bioshock: The Ocean on his Shoulders 2:16
  19. 19 Halo 3: One Final Effort 4:00
  20. 20 Fallout 3: Theme 2:20
  21. 21 Super Mario Galaxy: Gusty Garden Galaxy 3:49