Memorable Music in Gaming #70

Intro 

This week, we’re talking about video game music that could just as easily fit into TV shows or movies. The following are this author’s own interpretations of cinematic moments where these tracks could work beautifully.

Hotline Miami | Miami

There’s a moment in Snatch where two parallel scenes sync perfectly to “Disco Science” by Mirwais.

I recently rewatched Turbo Kid, and I can totally picture a slow-motion montage that blends the gritty visuals of Turbo Kid with the dark humor of Snatch—all while this sleepy, synth-heavy track plays in the background.

Miami (Original Mix)

Metal Gear Solid | Snake Eater

This is the most James Bond-sounding theme ever composed for a video game.

Speaking of Bond, I’m still bummed that “Spectre” by Radiohead was dropped in favor of Sam Smith’s forgettable “Writing’s on the Wall.” Inspired by Old Man Logan, I imagine an Old Man Bond scenario—an aging, bearded Brosnan-era Bond is pulled out of retirement for one last mission. The story follows a younger character seeking guidance from the legendary 007 agent.

Metal Gear Solid 3 Snake Eater Soundtrack: Snake Eater

Deus Ex: Human Revolution | Main Theme

Yes, this fits Deus Ex perfectly—but it could also serve as the main theme for a prestige TV drama à la Westworld or The Leftovers. In fact, I think anything from Damon Lindelof’s creative universe could benefit from this chilling, slow-burn tone-setter.

Icarus - Main Theme

Silent Hill | Promise

This one screams "closing credits music." I picture it wrapping up a post-apocalyptic film that ends on a bittersweet note—something to quietly reassure the audience that not all hope is lost.

That hard section near the end? It would be the musical cue for a cold water moment, where you’re reminded not everything is going to turn out alright. Wipe that smile off your face.

Promise

Half-Life 2 | Triage at Dawn

Another contender for best credits music. I can see this closing out an episode of a show that ends on a gut-punch cliffhanger—maybe even the death of a beloved character.

Also: Can we please just get Half-Life 3 already?!

Half life 2 Triage at Dawn (Extended)
 

 

Article by: Hamza

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Memorable Music in Gaming #66

This week, we’re spotlighting songs that could be considered “the other famous title” from their respective soundtracks or franchises. Whether they’re underrated, overrated, or just-right-rated, these sibling tracks deserve your love just as much as their more iconic counterparts.

Streets of Rage 2 | Dreamer

🎵 Sibling to: “Go Straight”

Another dance-floor banger from the Streets of Rage 2 soundtrack. “Dreamer” is insanely catchy and puts you in the perfect mood to punch your way through waves of bad dudes. Yuzo Koshiro, take a bow—again.

Dreamer

 

Metal Gear Solid | The Man Who Sold The World

🎵 Sibling to: “Nuclear”

This haunting cover by Midge Ure is one of my favorite songs in general, not just within the MGS universe. Even outside the game’s context, the track carries a mysterious, broken quality that fits The Phantom Pain's themes of identity and chaos all too well.

Metal Gear Solid V - T.P.P. | Midge Ure - The Man Who Sold The World

Half-Life 2 | Combine

🎵 Sibling to: “Valve Theme”

This track is the audio equivalent of the phrase “harbinger of doom.”
I often think of that scene from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban where the choir sings “Double Trouble.” Now imagine a choir of Overwatch soldiers being led by an Elite unit into a warped version of that performance. That’s what this sounds like.

Half Life 2-Combine Theme

Shovel Knight | An Underlying Problem

🎵 Sibling to: “Strike the Earth”

A chiptune masterpiece that nails the vibe of retro action-platformers. It’s energetic, atmospheric, and perfectly supports The Lost City stage. Like the rest of Shovel Knight’s soundtrack, this one’s a heartfelt tribute to the 8-bit golden era.

An Underlying Problem (The Lost City) - Shovel Knight [OST]

Hotline Miami 2 | Dust

🎵 Sibling to: “Hydrogen”

Also composed by M.O.O.N., “Dust” doesn’t quite get the same love as “Hydrogen”—but it absolutely should. Where “Hydrogen” is catchy and pulse-pounding, “Dust” leans into cinematic storytelling. Less club track, more slow-motion breakdown. Still hypnotic.

Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number Soundtrack - Dust

Article by: Hamza

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