Where to Find Inspiration for Game Music Soundtracks

Creating a compelling and immersive soundtrack for your game can be just as important as the gameplay itself. The right music sets the tone, enhances the story, and evokes emotions that make the gaming experience memorable. While big studios often hire well-known composers, independent game developers often have the challenge of finding quality music that fits both their vision and their budget.

Fortunately, independent artists are a rich and often untapped source of inspiration for game music. Whether you're looking for atmospheric ambient tunes, dramatic orchestral scores, or energetic beats for action sequences, independent composers offer a variety of styles and sounds that can bring your game’s world to life. In this blog, we'll discuss where to find game music inspiration from independent artists and highlight Ninichi’s collection of game music soundtracks: on her website and on bandcamp - as great resources for developers.

1. Online Marketplaces for Independent Music

One of the best ways to find inspiration for your game soundtrack is to explore online music marketplaces. These platforms allow independent composers to showcase and sell their music directly to game developers. Some of the most popular sites for finding game music from independent artists include:

• AudioJungle: Known for a huge library of tracks in every genre imaginable, this platform allows you to search specifically for game music and soundtracks. You can find both royalty-free and exclusive compositions from independent artists here.

• GameDev Market: This site caters specifically to game developers and features a collection of game music tracks, sound effects, and other assets. Many of the artists on this platform are independent and offer their work at affordable prices.

• Indie Game Music Packs: As the name suggests, this platform specializes in providing game music created by indie composers. Whether you're looking for battle themes, ambient tracks, or cinematic scores, you’ll find an extensive library of options to fit your project.

• Bandcamp: Bandcamp is a great platform for discovering unique, often experimental game music from independent artists. Many game music composers upload their full albums here, and you can support them directly by purchasing their work.

2. Composer Websites and Portfolios

Many independent composers also have personal websites or portfolios where they showcase their music. Searching through these sites gives you the chance to listen to their work and even connect with them directly for a custom collaboration or music pack.

Some composers offer free samples of their work or have specific game music albums ready for purchase. These tracks are often crafted with game developers in mind, making them a great resource for game soundtracks.

For instance, Ninichi, a talented composer, offers a variety of game music soundtracks on her website. She has a collection of royalty-free music packs, which are ideal for indie game developers on a budget. Ninichi’s music covers a wide range of genres and themes, including fantasy, chiptune, ambient, and more. Her compositions are specifically designed for game environments, which means you can find the perfect soundtrack that complements your game’s setting and mood.

3. SoundCloud and YouTube

Both SoundCloud and YouTube are fantastic platforms for discovering new and up-and-coming independent game music composers. Many musicians post their work here to gain exposure and connect with potential collaborators. You can often find full albums or individual tracks that fit your needs.

SoundCloud has many independent artists who specialize in creating music for games, and you can use the platform’s tagging and search features to find soundtracks for specific genres or themes. On YouTube, you can find composers sharing their music as well as tutorials, behind-the-scenes videos, and music analysis that can provide further inspiration for your own game music.

4. Game Jams and Communities

Game jams, like Ludum Dare or Global Game Jam, bring together indie developers from around the world to create games within a short time frame, often under specific themes or constraints. These events can be a great source of inspiration for music, as composers working on game jams often share their tracks publicly.

There are also active communities on platforms like Discord or Reddit (e.g., r/gamemusic), where independent composers and game developers can share their work, collaborate, and exchange ideas. These communities are a great place to find up-and-coming talent or discover fresh takes on game music.

5. Music Libraries for Indie Developers

There are a growing number of music libraries that cater specifically to the needs of indie game developers. These platforms often offer both royalty-free and exclusive tracks, allowing you to find game music that fits your project’s needs at an affordable price. Websites like Pond5, Bensound, and Marmoset offer both indie and established artists’ music, curated to fit a range of genres and game types.

These libraries can save you time in searching for the right music and offer the flexibility to use tracks without the need to hire a composer for a fully custom score. However, they do offer less flexibility compared to working with an individual composer directly.

6. Ninichi’s Collection of Game Music Soundtracks

For indie developers looking for professional game music that’s ready to use, Ninichi’s collection of game music soundtracks is a fantastic resource. Ninichi, as an independent composer, creates high-quality soundtracks designed with games in mind, offering a diverse range of music that can enhance the experience of any game.

Ninichi offers a variety of royalty-free game music packs that are perfect for indie developers, including tracks for fantasy games, action games, and more. Whether you need a catchy chiptune track for a retro-style game or an atmospheric piece for a mystery or adventure game, Ninichi’s music is versatile, accessible, and ready to use.

Her soundtracks are not only composed with a deep understanding of game dynamics but also crafted to be immersive and emotionally engaging, making them an excellent choice for developers seeking to bring their games to life with music.

Conclusion

Finding inspiration for your game music soundtrack doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Independent composers are an incredible source of creativity, offering unique, high-quality music that can make your game stand out. From online marketplaces and personal composer portfolios to communities and game jams, there are plenty of ways to discover great game music.

If you're looking for a reliable and affordable source of music, be sure to check out Ninichi’s collection of game music soundtracks. Whether you want royalty-free music packs or need custom compositions for your game, Ninichi’s music offers both flexibility and high quality, ensuring your game’s soundtrack will be a perfect fit. Explore her collection and find the soundtrack that suits your game’s world today!

Custom Composed Music vs. Royalty-Free Game Music: Which is Right for Your Game?

When it comes to selecting music for your game, the decision between custom composed music and royalty-free game music can have a significant impact on the final product. Music plays an essential role in shaping the mood, atmosphere, and overall experience of the game. Both options come with their own set of pros and cons, and it’s important to weigh them carefully when deciding which route to take for your game.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of both custom composed music and royalty-free music, as well as how Ninichi, a talented custom game music composer, offers both tailored compositions and affordable royalty-free music packs for developers on a budget.

Custom Composed Music: Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Unique and Tailored to Your Game One of the biggest advantages of custom composed music is that it’s designed specifically for your game. Every track is made to match the tone, mood, and atmosphere you envision. Whether you’re creating an epic fantasy RPG or an action-packed platformer, a composer can craft the perfect soundtrack that enhances every moment of your game.

2. Creative Collaboration Working with a composer gives you the opportunity to collaborate and shape the music to your exact needs. If you have specific ideas for themes, melodies, or instrumentation, a custom composer can bring those ideas to life and make adjustments as needed. This level of creative input can help elevate your game to the next level.

3. Consistency and Branding Custom music can help you create a consistent musical identity for your game. Whether it’s a recurring melody or specific instruments that represent certain characters or settings, a custom soundtrack can reinforce the themes and story of your game and make it more memorable for players.

Cons:

1. Higher Cost Custom composed music typically comes with a higher price tag. Hiring a composer to create an original soundtrack for your game can be expensive, especially for indie developers with limited budgets. The cost can vary depending on the scope of your game and the composer’s experience.

2. Time-Consuming Creating custom music takes time. The process of composing, recording, and fine-tuning the music can take weeks or even months, which might delay the development of your game. For developers on a tight timeline, waiting for a custom score to be completed may not always be practical.

3. Limited Flexibility Once the music is composed and implemented, it can be challenging to make changes. If you need revisions after the music has already been delivered, it could incur additional costs or delays. If you’re unsure of your exact musical needs early on, this could be a potential risk.

Royalty-Free Game Music: Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Affordable and Accessible One of the major benefits of using royalty-free music is its affordability. Many royalty-free music libraries offer high-quality tracks for a fraction of the cost of custom compositions. You can find options for every budget, whether you need a single track or a whole library of music.

2. Quick and Easy Implementation Royalty-free music packs are ready to use immediately. Once you purchase or license a track, you can implement it into your game without having to wait for a composer to create something from scratch. This makes it a great option for developers on tight schedules who need to get their game ready for release quickly.

3. Variety of Options Royalty-free music platforms offer a wide range of genres, styles, and moods. Whether you’re looking for orchestral, electronic, ambient, or chiptune music, there’s often a music pack that fits your game’s needs. You can explore different options to find the perfect match without the need to hire a composer.

4. No Ongoing Royalties Once you purchase or license a royalty-free track, you don’t need to worry about paying ongoing royalties every time your game is sold. This makes it easier to budget for your project and avoid long-term licensing fees.

Cons:

1. Lack of Uniqueness One of the biggest downsides of royalty-free music is that you may end up using tracks that other developers have already used. This could make your game’s soundtrack feel less unique and diminish its ability to stand out. However, this can be mitigated by choosing lesser-known tracks or unique music packs.

2. Limited Customization While you can choose from various music packs, you won’t have the same level of creative control as you would with a custom composer. You may not be able to tweak the music to your exact specifications, and the tracks might not align perfectly with every nuance of your game.

3. Overused Tracks Popular royalty-free tracks might be used in other games or media, making it difficult to avoid the risk of a “generic” soundtrack. It's important to dig deep into the available options to find tracks that feel fresh and distinctive.

Ninichi: Custom Music and Royalty-Free Game Music for Every Budget

For those who want a blend of both options, Ninichi offers a great solution. As a custom game music composer, she creates tailored soundtracks that fit your game’s unique tone and atmosphere. Whether you’re working on an epic adventure, a relaxing puzzle game, or a fast-paced action title, Ninichi can help you develop a distinctive score that elevates your game.

At the same time, Ninichi understands that many indie developers have limited budgets. That’s why she also offers royalty-free game music packs that are ready to use and affordable. These packs provide high-quality, diverse music options, from ambient themes to energetic tracks, without the hefty price tag of custom compositions.

For developers who are on a budget but still want to access high-quality, game-specific music, Ninichi’s royalty-free music packs provide an excellent solution. You get the convenience and affordability of royalty-free music, with the added bonus of knowing that the tracks are crafted by a professional composer who understands the needs of game developers.

Conclusion

The decision between custom composed music and royalty-free game music ultimately depends on your budget, timeline, and the specific needs of your game. Custom music offers a unique and tailored experience, but it comes at a higher cost and longer timeline. On the other hand, royalty-free music is affordable, quick, and easy to implement, but it may lack the distinctiveness and customization that a custom score offers.

For those who want the best of both worlds, Ninichi provides both custom game music compositions and royalty-free music packs that are perfect for a wide range of game genres. No matter what your budget or game requirements are, Ninichi offers flexible and high-quality music options that can help you create an unforgettable gaming experience.

Explore her royalty-free game music packs here and find the perfect soundtrack for your next project!

The Charm of Chiptune: Why Retro-Inspired Soundtracks Still Shine in Modern Games

Chiptune-inspired soundtracks have taken the gaming world by storm in recent years, reviving the nostalgic sounds of retro gaming while giving them a modern twist. Known for their catchy melodies, beeping synths, and 8-bit aesthetics, chiptune soundtracks are more than just a throwback to the past—they've become a beloved genre in their own right. From indie games to major releases, chiptune music is widely appreciated for its unique style, nostalgic value, and high energy.

In this blog, we’ll explore why chiptune-inspired soundtracks are so popular in modern games and how they continue to shape the gaming experience. And towards the end, we’ll highlight Ninichi’s Chiptune City and Game Flow albums, which showcase the vibrant potential of this genre.

1. Nostalgia and Retro Appeal

For many gamers, chiptune music is synonymous with the golden age of gaming. It harkens back to the early days of video games, when consoles like the NES and Game Boy were the cutting-edge technology. The distinct "beeps" and "boops" of chiptune evoke fond memories of classic titles from the '80s and '90s, and for many, it creates an emotional connection to the games they grew up with.

Chiptune's revival is fueled by the love of this retro sound, especially among indie game developers who seek to capture the spirit of vintage games. These soundtracks give modern players a sense of nostalgia, while also introducing younger audiences to the unique sounds that defined the early gaming era. It's a genre that transcends age groups, offering something for both those who grew up with it and those discovering it for the first time.

2. Catchy and Memorable Melodies

One of the main reasons why chiptune-inspired soundtracks are so effective is their ability to create catchy, memorable melodies within the limitations of older sound hardware. Due to the constraints of 8-bit technology, chiptune composers learned how to craft simple, yet incredibly effective, melodies that stick with listeners. These melodies are often repetitive, which makes them easy to remember and creates a rhythm that players can follow as they progress through the game.

The simplicity of chiptune allows the melodies to shine, focusing on rhythm and hooks that keep players engaged. Whether it's an upbeat tune that plays while jumping across platforms or a serene melody accompanying an exploration segment, chiptune soundtracks stick with players long after the game is over.

3. High Energy and Fast Pace

Chiptune music is inherently energetic, with its driving beats and fast-paced rhythms. This makes it a perfect fit for action-packed games, particularly platformers, racing games, and puzzle games. The rapid tempo and syncopated rhythms create an adrenaline-pumping atmosphere that matches the intensity of gameplay.

Additionally, the music’s energetic vibe complements the challenges of these games, enhancing the player’s focus and excitement. Chiptune's lively nature has an undeniable ability to elevate fast-paced gameplay, making it even more thrilling and enjoyable.

4. Minimalist and Clean Sound

One of the defining characteristics of chiptune music is its minimalist nature. The technology of the past could only produce a limited number of sounds, so chiptune composers became experts in making the most out of a small sonic palette. As a result, chiptune music has a clean, uncomplicated sound that cuts through the noise and leaves a lasting impact.

This minimalist approach allows the music to blend seamlessly with gameplay, adding atmosphere without overwhelming the player. In modern games, developers can use chiptune-inspired soundtracks to evoke a sense of clarity and focus, allowing players to remain immersed in the game world without distraction.

5. Innovative Fusion with Modern Genres

While chiptune music has its roots in the past, it has evolved and merged with many contemporary genres to create something new and exciting. Artists today are blending chiptune with electronic, synthwave, and even orchestral elements, resulting in fresh and innovative soundtracks that maintain the nostalgic charm of the genre while also appealing to modern tastes.

This fusion creates a dynamic and diverse range of chiptune-inspired soundtracks, from atmospheric pieces to high-energy tracks, offering something for every kind of game. Chiptune's ability to evolve and blend with other styles makes it a versatile genre that continues to be embraced by game developers and players alike.

6. Ninichi’s Chiptune City and Game Flow Albums

As chiptune-inspired music continues to grow in popularity, artists like Ninichi are pushing the genre forward with fresh, creative takes on the classic sound. Ninichi’s albums Chiptune City and Game Flow are perfect examples of how chiptune can be both nostalgic and innovative, combining catchy melodies, driving rhythms, and modern production techniques.

• Chiptune City: With Chiptune City, Ninichi creates an upbeat, energetic soundtrack that channels the vibe of a futuristic, pixelated metropolis. The album blends fast-paced chiptune beats with modern synth elements to create a dynamic atmosphere, perfect for fast-moving gameplay or exploring vibrant, bustling game worlds. The lively melodies and rhythmic precision make this album a great example of how chiptune music can remain fresh and exciting.

• Game Flow: In Game Flow, Ninichi takes a more varied approach, offering tracks that range from high-energy and fast-paced to smooth and atmospheric. The album exemplifies chiptune’s versatility, providing an excellent backdrop for games that involve both intense action and relaxing moments. With a combination of catchy rhythms, melodic hooks, and nostalgic sounds, Game Flow captures the spirit of retro gaming while giving it a modern twist.

Both of these albums demonstrate Ninichi's ability to blend the classic sounds of chiptune with a contemporary flair, making them stand out as fresh takes on a beloved genre. Whether you're a fan of the retro gaming sound or simply enjoy high-energy music that keeps you engaged, Ninichi’s Chiptune City and Game Flow albums are perfect soundtracks to add to your playlist.

In Conclusion Chiptune-inspired soundtracks are popular because they tap into a sense of nostalgia while offering a unique, energetic, and memorable listening experience. Whether it’s the catchy melodies, high energy, or minimalist clean sounds, chiptune music adds a distinct flavor to any game. It perfectly complements a wide range of genres, from action-packed platformers to retro-inspired puzzle games.

If you’re looking for fantastic examples of how chiptune can be used to great effect, check out Ninichi’s Chiptune City and Game Flow. Both albums showcase the vibrant, playful potential of the genre, blending retro sounds with modern sensibilities for a dynamic and exciting listening experience.

Where to Find Good Game Music Packs: A Guide for Developers

By Ninichi | Contact | Follow

Are you a game developer needing some music for your game? You’ve come to the right place! I’m Ninichi - a game music composer. I specialise in creating custom music for video games, animations and short films. Clients commission me to create custom music e.g. a custom soundtrack or custom theme tune for their projects.

I also have clients who license music from my back catalogue for use in their video games and who often ask me what the options are for music on a limited budget. This drove me to create my range of game music packs which are aimed at enabling those not able to hire a composer to access ready-made tracks for their games.

As a supporter of indie game developers, I wanted to collate all the other resources that I’m aware of that could be useful for the gamedev community. So, here are the different places where I believe you can find game music packs and royalty free music for your game project.

Do note that royalty free doesn’t necessarily mean that it is free. Royalty free music - is music that can be used without an ongoing royalty fee being paid to the creator.

I hope you find these all useful!

1. Stock Music Websites

Stock music websites are one of the most common places to find game music packs. These sites offer a wide range of tracks, from cinematic scores to upbeat electronic beats, which can be used in various game genres. Websites like AudioJungle, Pond5, and PremiumBeat provide extensive libraries of royalty-free music tracks, often organized into specific themes or moods.

The benefit of stock music is that the tracks are often ready to be used right away. However, one downside is that these websites sometimes feature music that feels generic or overused, so it can be a challenge to find something that feels truly unique for your game.

2. Dedicated Game Music Libraries

For game developers looking for tracks that are specifically designed for gaming, dedicated game music libraries are a great resource. These sites offer collections of tracks tailored to video game soundtracks, with music created to suit the dynamic and interactive nature of games. Popular game-specific music libraries include GameDev Market, OpenGameArt, and Kenney.nl.

These libraries often feature music that aligns more closely with the unique needs of game developers, such as music that adapts to different gameplay scenarios or themes. You'll often find music packs designed for certain genres, like RPGs, platformers, or puzzle games.

3. Royalty-Free Music Platforms

If you’re looking for high-quality music that doesn’t come with a hefty price tag or licensing headaches, royalty-free music platforms are an excellent choice. On these platforms, you pay a one-time fee or subscribe to access a library of music tracks that you can use in your game without worrying about ongoing royalties.

One notable platform for royalty-free music is Ninichi Music. Ninichi offers a variety of royalty-free game music packs that can be licensed for commercial use, making it an excellent choice for indie game developers. Her music is carefully crafted to fit various game genres and styles, from fantasy and adventure to chiptune and relaxing ambient tracks. You can browse through her selection and find a music pack that suits the mood of your game.

4. Independent Composers and Artists

If you're looking for something more unique and tailored to your game's specific needs, consider exploring music by independent composers and artists. Many independent musicians sell their music directly through platforms like Bandcamp, SoundCloud, or their personal websites. By purchasing music directly from an artist, you may even be able to negotiate exclusive rights or custom music tailored to your game’s specific requirements.

Independent composers often offer music that has a distinct style, which can make your game stand out. Contact Ninichi directly to discuss your specific game music needs.

5. Ninichi’s Royalty-Free Game Music Packs

For game developers looking for high-quality, royalty-free music that fits a variety of game genres, Ninichi’s royalty-free game music packs are an excellent option. Ninichi is an experienced composer who has created a diverse range of music packs designed specifically for game developers. From atmospheric and ambient tracks to energetic and upbeat themes, Ninichi’s music can be the perfect complement to your project.

On her website, you can explore a selection of ready-to-use music packs that are versatile, easy to implement, and affordable. Whether you're working on a fantasy RPG, an action-packed platformer, or a relaxing puzzle game, Ninichi’s music packs provide a wide array of options for every kind of game.

Her royalty-free game music packs allow you to purchase high-quality music without worrying about ongoing licensing fees. Plus, these tracks are crafted with attention to detail, ensuring that they’re the perfect fit for your game’s atmosphere and narrative.

You can find Ninichi’s royalty-free game music packs directly here.

6. Customizable Music Packs

Some platforms, like Bensound and Soundstripe, offer customizable music packs where you can tweak the tracks to fit your game’s specific needs. These packs often come with variations in tempo, instrumentation, and arrangement, allowing you to create a more personalized soundtrack without having to hire a composer. This flexibility can be a great advantage if you're working on a game with multiple levels, stages, or environments that require different moods. Ninichi also often adapts tracks to suit specific needs and also has a vast library of music archived that can be licensed on request. So, if you see something on her Bandcamp, SoundCloud or website that you feel would work well with your game, don’t be afraid to get in touch and ask about it.

7. Free Music Libraries

For developers on a tight budget, there are also a number of free music libraries that offer game music tracks for commercial use. Websites like Free Music Archive (now Epidemic sound), Incompetech, and Purple Planet Music provide a selection of royalty-free music tracks that can be used in your game for free, with some requiring attribution.

While free music libraries can be a great resource, it’s important to carefully check the licensing terms to make sure you’re allowed to use the music in commercial projects. Additionally, because free music is widely available, it may be harder to find truly unique tracks that aren’t already used by other developers.

In Conclusion Finding the right music for your game is essential to creating a memorable and engaging experience for your players. Whether you choose to browse stock music websites, explore dedicated game music libraries, or look for royalty-free music, there are many options available to developers.

For those looking for high-quality, royalty-free music specifically crafted for games, Ninichi’s music packs provide a great selection of ready-to-use tracks designed for various game genres. Be sure to check out her royalty-free music packs here and find the perfect soundtrack for your next project!

You may also enjoy exploring some of my other resource related blogs:

• 12 Great Places to find Sounds Effects for your game

• 10 Awesome Sources of Funding & Grants for Your Indie Game

• 17 Great Places to Find Free Game Art

• 16 Indie-Friendly Indie Game Publishers

• 10 Crowdfunding Platforms to Consider for Indie Projects

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About the author: Ninichi is a game and film music composer. She works on a range of freelance composing projects supporting talented game developers and film makers with their music. 

Want some great custom music for your game? Listen to Ninichi's game music or contact her now to discuss your game music needs.

Follow her @ninichimusic

Top 10 Fantasy Music Albums for Game Soundtracks

Fantasy music has the extraordinary ability to transport us to magical realms, awaken our imaginations, and enhance the emotional depth of the stories we experience. When it comes to video games, the right soundtrack can elevate the entire gaming experience, providing a sense of wonder and immersion. If you're a fan of fantasy worlds and epic soundscapes, this list of 10 essential fantasy music albums is for you—featuring a mix of iconic game scores and a lesser-known gem: Fantasy Dreams by Ninichi.

1. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Jeremy Soule)

Jeremy Soule’s Skyrim soundtrack is a cornerstone of fantasy game music. From the thrilling and dramatic Dragonborntheme to the haunting and serene Far Horizons, this soundtrack brings the vast open world of Skyrim to life. The orchestral score encapsulates the rugged beauty of the Nordic landscape, making it one of the most memorable fantasy scores in gaming.

2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (Marcin Przybyłowicz, Mikolai Stroinski, and Percival)

The music in The Witcher 3 is as rich and multifaceted as the world it inhabits. Blending dark, atmospheric tones with sweeping orchestral moments, the soundtrack masterfully complements the game’s gritty, yet magical, narrative. Tracks like Priscilla’s Song and Silver for Monsters are emotional and evocative, reflecting the game's deep lore and intense drama.

3. Chrono Trigger (Yasunori Mitsuda)

Chrono Trigger’s music is a true masterpiece, mixing genres from classical orchestral arrangements to jazz and rock influences. Yasunori Mitsuda’s timeless score provides the perfect soundtrack to the game’s time-traveling adventure. The legendary Chrono Trigger theme and emotional Frog’s Theme stand out as some of the most iconic tracks in gaming history.

4. Final Fantasy VII (Nobuo Uematsu)

Nobuo Uematsu’s compositions for Final Fantasy VII are deeply emotional and grand in scale. From the intense battle themes to the serene, contemplative tracks like Aerith’s Theme, the soundtrack complements the game’s rich storyline and complex characters. The iconic One-Winged Angel remains one of the most dramatic pieces in video game music.

5. Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch (Joe Hisaishi)

Joe Hisaishi, the composer behind many of Studio Ghibli’s films, brings his unique style to Ni No Kuni, creating a magical and whimsical soundtrack that fits perfectly within the game’s charming world. From the stirring Main Themeto the sorrowful Nightmares, Hisaishi’s score amplifies the emotional beats of this beautiful RPG, adding layers of magic and nostalgia.

6. Dark Souls (Motoi Sakuraba)

The Dark Souls soundtrack is as haunting and atmospheric as the game’s grim, unforgiving world. Motoi Sakuraba’s minimalist and eerie score plays a key role in building tension throughout the game. With tracks that echo the bleakness and danger of the environment, such as Gwyn, Lord of Cinder, the music plays a crucial role in setting the game’s oppressive tone.

7. Shadow of the Colossus (Kow Otani)

Kow Otani’s soundtrack for Shadow of the Colossus is understated, yet incredibly powerful. The score, with its sweeping orchestral arrangements and haunting melodies, mirrors the game’s vast, lonely landscapes and the colossal foes you face. Tracks like The Opened Way capture the sense of awe and scale, while the quieter moments add emotional depth to the experience.

8. Horizon Zero Dawn (Joris de Man, The Flight, Niels van der Leest)

With its breathtaking world of robotic creatures and vast landscapes, Horizon Zero Dawn benefits from a soundtrack that blends tribal rhythms, orchestral compositions, and electronic elements. The music reflects Aloy’s journey through a post-apocalyptic world, with memorable tracks like Aloy’s Theme evoking both the wonder and tragedy of her story.

9. Dragon Age: Inquisition (Trevor Morris)

Trevor Morris’ Dragon Age: Inquisition score captures the grandeur and emotional complexity of the game’s world. From the heroic and inspiring The Inquisitor’s Theme to the eerie and melancholic The Winter Palace, the music complements the game’s sweeping narrative and political intrigue, while also providing a sense of deep fantasy adventure.

10. Fantasy Dreams (Ninichi)

Ninichi’s Fantasy Dreams is a stunning fantasy album that brings together lush orchestral soundscapes, rich melodies, and magical atmospheres. Unlike traditional game soundtracks, Fantasy Dreams is a standalone album that evokes the same emotional depth and wonder you’d expect from a great fantasy game score. Tracks like City on Air and Clouds of Wonder are gentle yet evocative, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that transports listeners to far-off lands. This album showcases Ninichi’s unique ability to blend fantasy, tranquility, and a sense of adventure, making it a perfect addition to any fantasy music lover’s collection.

These 10 albums represent some of the finest music in the fantasy genre, offering sweeping orchestral scores, emotional melodies, and dynamic compositions that elevate their respective games to unforgettable heights. Whether you’re revisiting your favorite titles or discovering new musical gems like Ninichi’s Fantasy Dreams, these soundtracks will take you on epic journeys into magical worlds that will stay with you long after the music fades.

How to Write a Great Music Brief for a Composer

By Ninichi | Contact | Follow

Are you thinking of working with a composer for your game, film or commercial? If so, it will be really helpful for both you and them to create a clear brief to work together from. This will help to ensure that you are thinking along the same lines, are both working from the same set of information and it may also help to clarify your thoughts.

Here are a few things to make sure you include in your composer brief:

Information about your project

Include details and background about you and your project.

• What is it called?

• What is it about?

• Who is it for?

• What are you trying to do with it?

• What are your plans for it?

• What does it look like?

Make sure that you include everything that is important to you about the project, where it comes from, your vision for it and anything else that comes to mind.

Where you are at with your project

How far along are you in your project and what is left to do? It can be really helpful for a composer to have an idea of what sort of a timeline you are working with and where you are in your overall project.

Music requirements

Give an indication of what you're hoping for musically.

• How many tracks?

• How long should they be?

• What music style do you have in mind?

• Include examples and reference tracks

• Where does the music fit into the project exactly?

• How you plan to use it?

Deadlines and budget

It is often helpful to give an indication on what your budget is or any budgeting constraints you have to work with, and also what sort of timeframes and deadlines might be coming up for you or that you have to work within.

This will help the composer to manage their time, their work and to establish upfront whether or not they can work with you and within these constraints or not.

About the author

Ninichi is a game music and film music composer. She works with talented indie game developers and film makers to create unique soundtracks for their games and films.

Explore this website to learn more about Ninichi & how she can help you with the music for your project.

Follow her @ninichimusic