The Legend of Zelda

When it comes to video game music, few franchises have left as indelible a mark on fans and critics as the Legend of Zelda series. Serving as both a rich sensory backdrop and an integral part of gameplay, these games are a masterclass in immersive video game music. Although many pieces—like the Overworld Theme—appear in almost every game, each installment boasts its own unique musical tapestry. The Wind Waker’s jaunty, nautical soundtrack is quite different to the hauntingly beautiful melodies of Majora’s Mask, for example. Their emotional impact is made even more impressive considering the creative restrictions imposed by early Nintendo systems. Despite limitations both in terms of sound hardware and available controller buttons, Koji Kondo composed 12 separate melodies from the same five notes that players must play in Ocarina of Time—many of which became some of the most memorable and enduring in the industry. More recent entries continue to push the boundaries of what video game music can achieve.

While controversial due to the absence of many themes players know and love, the soundtrack for Breath of the Wild is perfectly suited to its post-apocalyptic setting and story. The world that Link is thrust into is in ruins—so, too, is the music. From these broken, fragmented melodies to the bombastic fanfares of the earliest games, the Legend of Zelda series weaves magic into its music, and their musical legacy is as enduring and cherished as the games themselves. So, the next time you go off in search of a lost princess or set sail towards adventure, take Navi’s advice to heart: Hey, listen!  

📷@_curtisperry