Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest: Jib Jig

Jib Jig is one of the many great songs from the Donkey Kong Country 2 soundtrack. Its main melody is a catchy jig that feels perfect for the lighthearted pirate setting that defines the game’s early stages. I can easily imagine a group of pirates gathering on deck for such a tune, and the added wind and rain effects only add to the atmosphere. I’ve always loved this soundtrack for featuring a wide variety of songs that do a great job at matching each level’s distinct setting, and Jib Jig remains a personal favorite among them.

Aquaria: The Traveller

I have a huge appreciation for Aquaria as a game about exploration as much as anything else, and its beautiful soundtrack couldn’t support this goal any better. Songs like The Traveller really showcase what the game is all about, with its low key nature, steady drums and peaceful flutes and horns it seems to embrace the mystery and wonder that comes with venturing into the unknown. In addition, something about the notes and chords make me think, appropriately, of the ocean. It’s just a great example of a game with a singular vision being supported by an equally dedicated soundtrack.

Mass Effect 2: Suicide Mission

Mass Effect 2’s final mission is one of my favorite closing acts of any game out there, and I love that it has such a bombastic song to accompany it. Like the rest of the game’s soundtrack, the sci-fi vibe is awesome, and I’ve always been a sucker for drums, horns and vocals. Suicide Mission has all three in spades, and they combine in highly epic fashion. The pacing of the song also does a wonderful job at building up to a well timed climax before trailing off, rising and falling at all the right moments. I can’t think of a better punctuation to one of gaming’s most intense final missions, making Suicide Mission one of my most memorable video game songs.

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