The Legend of Zelda Soundtracks – Top 5 Ranked
5. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (2000)
Console: Nintendo 64
This soundtrack takes Ocarina of Time’s formula and shifts it into a darker and more unsettling tone. It’s emotionally complex and deeply immersive – and sometimes downright scary. The music uses a mix of familiar motifs and new compositions to set the mood for each area and scenario. Tracks like “Clock Town” change dynamically to reflect the passing of time, adding to the player’s growing sense of dread as the moon looms closer. Meanwhile, pieces like “Song of Healing” provide moments of emotional depth, reflecting the game’s themes of loss and redemption. The soundtrack showcases Koji Kondo’s skill in crafting music that doesn’t just accompany gameplay but becomes a core part of the storytelling. It’s a testament to his talent and his ability to make the soundtrack as unforgettable as the game itself.
4. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991)
Console: SNES
Koji Kondo … you’ve done it again. There’s no doubt that this is a cornerstone of video game music. After working on Nintendo franchises like Super Mario Bros., Kondo approached this project with a focus on creating a musical identity that matched the game’s grand sense of adventure. With the expanded capabilities of the SNES’s sound chip, Kondo crafted a rich, layered score that elevated the series’ musical depth, setting a new standard for game soundtracks.
Each track enhances the game’s emotional tone, whether it’s the urgency of combat or the quiet beauty of exploring Hyrule. It’s not surprising that so many video game composers reference this soundtrack as their inspiration. What makes this score so memorable isn’t just its technical execution but how well it connects players to the game world, making every dungeon, battle, and discovery feel more alive.
3. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)
Console: Nintendo Wii U & Nintendo Switch
Now this soundtrack is a bold departure from the franchise’s usual symphonic melodies, opting instead for a minimalist and atmospheric approach. The score was composed by a team led by Manaka Kataoka, with contributions from Yasuaki Iwata and Hajime Wakai, each bringing a unique touch to the game’s vast open world. They wanted the music to reflect the quiet, contemplative nature of exploring Hyrule – letting the game breath (no pun intended) without taking away from amazing scenery.
It features sparse and contemplative piano melodies, soft strings, and ambient sounds that weave into the environment, making the music feel like part of the world itself. Like I said, the composers used silence as an instrument, allowing players to soak in the natural sounds of the wilderness. This makes musical moments (like encountering a Guardian or solving a Shrine puzzle) stand out even more.
2. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (2002)
Console: Nintendo Gamecube
Speaking of a breath of fresh air – this soundtrack, composed by Kenta Nagata, Hajime Wakai, Toru Minegishi, and Koji Kondo, was a collaborative effort that brought fresh energy to the series while staying true to its roots. Each composer brought their unique style to the table, resulting in a dynamic and cohesive musical experience.
What’s clear is the Celtic influences, featuring lively flutes, strings and percussion – perfect for sailing across vast, open seas. It also incorporates familiar Zelda motifs in new ways, giving a nostalgic nod to longtime fans while crafting something distinctly new. What was innovative was the interactive music – the immersion. It would change dynamically based on the player’s action which was a game changer. This is a standout entry in the series.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
Console: Nintendo 64
No surprise here. This is one of the most iconic soundtracks in video game history and a rare instance where the music in this game became as legendary as the game itself. Kondo, who had already shaped the sound of the Zelda series with earlier entries, approached Ocarina of Time with the challenge of using the N64’s limited sound capabilities to create a score that felt rich, immersive, and emotionally resonant.
What makes this soundtrack stand out is how seamlessly it integrates into gameplay. Kondo composed melodies that players would actively use through the in-game ocarina, such as “Zelda’s Lullaby” and “Song of Time,” making the music not just a background element but a core mechanic of the adventure. What make this truly great though, is Kondo’s use of simple melodies to evoke something in the player – something warm and fuzzy. The soundtrack’s interactive nature and unforgettable compositions cemented Ocarina of Time as a benchmark for how music can enhance storytelling and gameplay
