With the release of the SNES Classic today, hopefully you all are having better luck finding them and enjoying a healthy does of nostalgia. Rather than do a Top 5 SNES games list, because if we're honest most every game here is a winner and there wouldn't be much debate as to which games deserve to be on top, let's instead take a look at the Top 5 SNES soundtracks and sound effects. The SNES provided an era of superb sound design. So for those still waiting on obtaining the system, or who are just looking for some good tunes, enjoy below.
-1- Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy Kong's Quest
The only omission to the SNES classic on this Top 5 list, Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy Kong's Quest has probably one of the best soundtracks in games ever. There is such a rich variety of levels and music to be found in this game, each tune just as memorable as the next. From the tranquil ambience of Stickerbrush Symphony to the thrilling beats of Lockjaw's Locker, David Wise has composed a masterpiece of a soundtrack here. (Don't worry, the original Donkey Kong Country has quite a superb soundtrack to boot as well)
Fun Fact: Stickerbrush Symphony was originally composed as an unused underwater stage until it found its way in Bramble Blast by pure chance.
-2- Earthbound
Releasing near the end of the SNES life cycle, Earthbound features a soundtrack that is incredibly funky and fresh. The composers have said to draw influences from many Western artists and various genres, from pop and rock music to salsa, reggae, and dub music. The result is one of the most unique and diverse soundtracks of a generation.
-3- The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
The musical works of Koji Kondo in every Zelda game are quite simply works of art, and many a theme you hear in later Zelda games found their start in this particular entry for the SNES, such as Zelda's Lullaby, Hyrule Castle, and even the Fairy Cave / Select Screen. The music of this game perfectly sets the mood and tone as Link galavants across Hyrule and the Dark World alike. From stormy nights to mysterious dungeons, danger and adventure are calling in this classic.
-4- Mega Man X
How do you take a coveted series and make it seem like a cutting-edge new sequel series? Make it bold and in your face. Mega Man X features one of the most kick-butt and rocking soundtracks that demands every bit of your head-bopping and foot-tapping as you blast your way across these action-filled stages.
-5- Final Fantasy VI
Known as Final Fantasy III in the US (because we missed a few entries that were only in Japan at the time), the soundtrack of this game helps center the player in a fantastical world through its stirring and rich melodies. Composed by long-time series contributor Nobuo Uematsu, every character and location in the game is given more distinct personality through memorable and varied tunes. And the ambitions of the music in this game know no end, from including a full-on opera to even a 17-minute boss theme that is Dancing Mad.
Honorable Mentions
It was hard to narrow down this list to five due to the amazing scores found in so many SNES games, but honorable mentions go out to the likes of Secret of Mana, Chrono Trigger, and Super Mario World.
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And before we sign off, here are my Top 5 SFX of the SNES. Perhaps you'll find some new notification sounds for your mobile device below.
-1- Goof Troop (Item Get)
-2- Capcom Logo
-3- The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (Ocarina)
-4- Super Mario World (Coin)
-5- Earthbound (Oncoming Foe)
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Did I miss a particular SNES soundtrack or sound effect of note (no pun intended)? Be sure to share and discuss your favorites in the comments below. Otherwise, happy hunting, humming, and gaming!
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