5 of the Best JRPG Soundtracks Ever

When it comes to JRPGs, one of the most defining and enduring features is the music. JRPG soundtracks have a way of drawing players into their worlds, using memorable themes to enhance the emotional weight of every moment.

From sweeping orchestral pieces to upbeat, catchy melodies, the genre is filled with unforgettable compositions. To keep things balanced, this list features one standout soundtrack per series, showcasing how music has elevated these games to legendary status.

Final Fantasy VI

Choosing one soundtrack from the Final Fantasy series is like picking a favorite child. Literally every entry could make its way onto this list. However, to me Final Fantasy VI earns its spot for the sheer number of memorable songs.

Nobuo Uematsu’s masterful score ranges from hauntingly somber to epically grand. The highlight is undoubtedly “Dancing Mad,” an intricately layered, multi-movement piece that mirrors the chaos and majesty of the final battle against Kefka. I believe it is not only the best piece of video game music ever written, but an incredibly great piece of music in its own right.

Chrono Cross

Although Chrono Cross is often overshadowed by its predecessor, Chrono Trigger, it’s impossible to ignore its stellar soundtrack. Yasunori Mitsuda weaves a lush, dreamlike tapestry of sounds that capture the game’s ethereal quality.

“Radical Dreamers” stands out, delivering a delicate melody that’s as moving as it is memorable. Even for those who may not connect with the game’s story, the music leaves an indelible impression. Chrono Cross often finds its way onto best game soundtrack lists and it’s easy to see why.

Pokémon Black and White

The Pokémon series is no stranger to catchy tunes, but Black and White takes things to another level. This soundtrack brims with energy, creativity, and an earworm quality that sticks with you long after the game ends. Many songs from this game have made their way onto social media well after the games life.

The Elite Four Theme stands out as a driving, intense piece that perfectly encapsulates the high-stakes battles against the series’ toughest trainers. It’s a great and frantic piece that keeps the hype up into the last act of the game.

Persona 5

Stylish, jazzy, and undeniably cool, Persona 5’s soundtrack embodies the rebellious spirit of the Phantom Thieves. Shoji Meguro’s work blends jazz-infused rock with vocal performances, creating a distinctive and unforgettable sound.

It’s clear from the moment you boot up the game that the music is just as stylish as the visuals. The standout track, “Rivers in the Desert,” is a thrilling anthem that fuels the game’s most climactic moments, highlighting its blend of style and substance.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky

The Trails series is known for its intricate storytelling, and its music matches that level of detail. The orchestral soundtrack of Trails in the Sky and Trails in the Sky SC evolves alongside its narrative, with recurring motifs reflecting character growth and escalating conflicts.

The “Fateful Confrontation” theme during battles with Ouroboros members from the second game is an earworm, enhancing the tension of these pivotal moments. There’s also several moments of genuine emotion paired with the music to the point that small leitmotifs in future games can trigger memories.

These are just a handful of the incredible soundtracks that JRPGs have gifted us over the years. What about you? Which JRPG soundtracks do you think deserve the spotlight? Let us know your favorites!