Video game music is truly special. It has its own history, its own evolution, marked by landmarks and milestones worthy of study. Whether it’s the classic Super Mario tunes, the pitch-perfect Gran Turismo soundtracks, or the iconic melodies of Zelda, video game music can transport you to far-off lands or get your blood pumping in anticipation of a boss battle.
The Sonic the Hedgehog series is one such landmark in video game music history. The game debuted on the Sega Genesis (Mega Drive in Japan) in 1991, and I was one of many kids who fell in love with that crazy fast blue hedgehog. Though fundamentally silly, the character has endured over time, spawning numerous sequels, classic television shows, and major motion pictures. Throughout the character’s history, a cheeky, energetic vibe has been an integral part of his persona, and the game’s music played a crucial role in his success.
With the 16-bit architecture of the Genesis, not only did graphics improve, but so did the sound. As gaming systems became more powerful, the music evolved as well. What follows is a Top 10 List from that very special Sega Genesis era. Some tracks are fun, some wild, and some uniquely memorable. Hopefully, this list brings a smile to your face and inspires you to fire up your Genesis (or smartphone or game console) and enjoy these classic games once again!
NOW, LET’S GO!
10. SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 1- GREEN HILL ZONE
Of course, the legend starts with the music from the very first level. I can almost see myself sitting in front of the TV listening to this for the first time. Energetic, bouncy, and begging you to press start, it’s the perfect intro to this fast and fun game. If you have trouble getting going in the morning I dare you play this tune and not get ready to START your day!
9. SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2: SKY CHASE ZONE
Don’t you ever just want to fly through the clouds, turn into a spinning ball, and smash your enemies to pieces? You get to do just that in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 while this cool, melodic song plays. Uplifting, souring, and cheerful, this tune just makes me smile.
8. SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3: AZURE LAKE
Fast, full, and absolutely Sonic, this buzzy tune could easily slide into any racing game and get the blood going. Here it’s used to maximum effect and makes you want to move! The level is short, but the song is absolutely going for it.
7. SONIC THE HEDGEHOG – SPRINGYARD ZONE
While the Spring Yard Zone was not my favorite level of all time, this tune sure ranks up there. Dripping in elegance and smoothness, it never fails to get my head bobbing. It’s one of those few video game songs you’d be happy to hear playing at a chill bar while you are having a nice cold beverage. Great stuff!
6. SONIC AND KNUCKLES – Sky Sanctuary Zone
Sonic and Knuckles was a unique endeavor, with the cartridge that was a standalone game that you could attach another cartridge to and play that game with Knuckles in it. For instance, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and 3 could be plugged in and you could play those games with Knuckles in place of Sonic. Trust me, it was awesome, and blew my middle school mind. Having said that, this banger is one of the stand outs from the soundtrack. Frenzied, hyper paced, with an rising tempo mixed in, it’s a pleasure on the ears and worth repeat listens.
5. KNUCKLES CHAOTIX – MIDNIGHT GREENHOUSE
Ok, ok, I can ALREADY here the complaints. This is a KNUCKLES game, not a Sonic game! Well, we go on and on about “shared universes” now, and this counts. The game was released on the 32X and I was one of the 3 people who bought the thing in the states and got enjoy the game. What impressed me most was the soundtrack, which could be played on it’s own. All of it is great, but this one stands out for it’s smooth, jazzy tempo with a hint of starlight scattered in there. You can listen to the whole thing on Youtube, and it’s fun to let the songs roll through. Honestly, I had to keep myself from making half this list Knuckles Chaotix songs. This particular one is chill to the max and best of breed for this amazing soundtrack.
4. SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 – Final Boss
Final boss music is usually anything but entertaining. I mean, intimidation is the name of the game, and harsh tones and thundering bas are almost required, but not here. This tune evolves, slow and then first, with waves of pure synth deliciousness. As far as boss music goes, this is elevated to the max.
3. SONIC THE HEDGEHOG – SPECIAL STAGE
Special stages in Sonic games are something else. A unique aside. A frustrating experience. An extradimensional trip. For me, this tune makes me want to STAY in the special zone and chill. Stay there and dream the day away with a bottle of Mountain Dew and a freshly delivered pizza. I know, I know, childish fantasy. But this breezy, dreamy tune makes me want to do just that.
2. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 – Ending 1
We all love winning, don’t we? For me, getting to the end of a game was like winning the Super Bowl. Hours (weeks in child years, really) spent fighting robots and machines to claw your way to victory. With the Sonic The Hedgehog 2 Ending 1 music we have a tune fit for a champion.
1. Sonic the Hedgehog – Starlight Zone
Now, here is where we have to say you can’t beat the original! I am also fully aware I am not breaking new ground here. This song is fairly iconic, even being used to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony. The level itself is a respite from the Labyrinth Zone in the game, and is as light and airy as this song is. It’s one of those earworms I find myself humming along to when I am just out and about or having a good time. This is 35 years or so after playing the game, by the way. It’s not too fast paced, and not to slow. It’s just right in all the places it needs to be and takes me right back to the good old days when having fun was the only thing I needed to worry about.
And that wraps it up! I hope this was a fun journey for you, and if you love these tunes I encourage you to learn more about their creators, such as Masato Nakamura and other contributors who have made these games a joy to listen to and play.