What recognizable music tracks from games have become part of pop culture in Latin America

By 20 August, 2024

It’s hard to imagine a popular game without great soundtracks that enhance its storyline or make it more dynamic. In today’s industry, video game music has gone far beyond just being background melodies and has taken a leading position. Developers hire musical specialists or even orchestras to create fitting soundtracks for their projects. This approach has been highly successful, and the music created is not only heard in games but also listened to separately by countless fans. In this article, we’ll tell you about recognizable music tracks from games that have become an important part of culture in Latin America.

The development of game soundtracks

With the advent of the first popular games, soundtracks emerged that influenced culture. Examples include Doom, Super Mario Bros., Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker, and Sonic. Doom primarily featured music from heavy genres like metal, which contributed to the popularization and development of this subculture. One of the first truly recognizable soundtracks was from Super Mario Bros., composed by Koji Kondo. This track, with its cheerful and memorable melody, became popular not only among gamers but also more broadly.

Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker is surprisingly connected to the music artist Michael Jackson, who is rightfully called the King of Pop. This game features his songs reimagined in an 8-bit style, along with other tracks in this genre, which had a massive impact on pop culture, particularly in Latin America. His influence is so widespread that his music can often be heard at various public events, from sports games to street performances, reflecting its deep integration into everyday life.

Esports and the Rise of Gaming Soundtracks in Latin American Pop Culture

With the growth of esports, game soundtracks have gained even more popularity. Tracks from games like League of Legends, Counter-Strike, Fortnite, and Dota 2 have become synonymous with the excitement and adrenaline of competitive gaming. The integration of these tracks into the esports scene has only strengthened their presence in pop culture, with many being played at events, streamed online, and even remixed by local DJs.

Moreover, the popularity and influence of these soundtracks are evident in how they are discussed in news and other gaming-related content throughout Latin America. Special platforms like esports news play an important role by publishing information about esports, competitions, events, and music, contributing to the development of this culture. This music is loved not only by gamers but also by the general public, who are familiar with it through various media channels, from YouTube to Twitch streams. As the esports industry in Latin America continues to grow, so does the popularity of these tracks, making them a significant part of the region’s cultural landscape.

The best Latin Pop soundtracks

Here is a list of some of the best songs in this genre that top the charts, are featured in esport news, and have gained community recognition:

  • The Sims – “Glide with Me.” This Latin-inspired track with Jazz elements conveys a relaxing vibe, helping players unwind.
  • Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers – “Veo Lu Sluice.” This song incorporates various musical instruments from Latin American culture and perfectly captures the game’s atmosphere.
  • Marvel vs. Capcom 2 OST – “Desert Stage.” Another track that embodies the spirit of Latin music. This energetic soundtrack is perfect for dancing.
  • Koji Kondo – “Gerudo Valley.” This soundtrack is used in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, a part of the immensely popular The Legend of Zelda series.

These songs are among those that excellently capture the essence of Latin pop music, but there are also many other popular tracks that have been partially or fully used in games, originally created not for a game but as standalone songs. Overall, this genre is renowned for its danceable beats, making any track from a game or the genre itself perfect for relaxation.

The impact of musical collaboration in modern video games

Collaboration is a crucial component for the development of the gaming industry and esports. Thanks to this and technological advancements, we can play games like Fortnite or Cyberpunk 2077, which have become true phenomena in this field, and their impact in Latin America is no exception. Fortnite has a unique approach to integrating music into gameplay, leading to collaborations with famous artists who create tracks that have become hits both within and outside the gaming world. One of the most notable examples is Travis Scott’s virtual concert, where he introduced the track “The Scotts.” This event was incredibly successful in Latin America, played by millions of gamers. The song quickly became part of pop culture, reflecting the growing influence of games on the music industry in the region.

Cyberpunk 2077 is another modern game that has made a significant cultural impact, not only through its gameplay but also through its music. The game features a wide range of soundtracks from various genres by popular artists, such as Grimes, who created the track “4ÆM” specifically for the game. This song, along with others from the soundtrack, has been embraced by fans and is frequently featured in various media, esport news, streaming playlists, and esports broadcasts.

Conclusion

Bringing all the facts together, it can be said that music has become an integral part of the gaming industry and pop culture, influencing not only gamers but also a broader audience. Tracks from Fortnite, Final Fantasy, and Cyberpunk 2077 have transcended their origins and become cultural icons in their own right. As the popularity of games and esports continues to grow, the connection between video game music and pop culture in Latin America will only deepen, creating new opportunities for both artists and gamers.


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