Top 10 Greatest Legend Of Zelda Songs

The Great Fairy Fountain theme is one of the oldest “Zelda” songs and has worked its way into a majority of the games as the file select theme. With every new door Link opens, he faces a new threat. The fairy fountains provide the adventurer a safe haven, however, where he can replenish his health and grow stronger. The music perfectly captures the fountain’s peaceful sentiment with the soothing comfort of a lullaby and an all-encompassing, magical presence. Hearing to it truly lifts your spirits, invigorating the player to continue their quest.

Where the previous “Zelda” games took Link through the land of Hyrule and onto the Great Sea, “Skyward Sword” elevated him up beyond the clouds. The game developers aimed to make the player feel as if they were Link with motion controls. They achieved this effect even more so via the game’s soundtrack, particularly the sky theme. The composers actually created the sensation of flight as you ride your Loftwing through the sky with the wind blowing through your hair. Triumphant and majestic, you’ll never want to go back down.

Hyrule is one of the most iconic locales in all gaming, despite how much it changes from game to game. It’s an environment that lives and breathes through its design, its atmosphere, and of course its music. Of all the themes that have tried to epitomize the spirit of the Hyrule Field, the one from “Twilight Princess” did the most outstanding job – so it’s no coincidence that this also doubled for the games main theme as well. Listening to this glorious music really makes the player feel like a brave warrior riding a horse through a vast, grassy landscape. Never before has Hyrule seemed grander, increasing your craving for adventure and exploration.

We’ve visited a number of diverse lands throughout the “Zelda” franchise and Gerudo Valley from “Ocarina of Time” is one that continues to stick with us. That’s largely because of valley’s infectiously catchy musical score, which embodies the essence of the old west. At its bare bones, the desert can be a bland and dull location. The music helps Gerudo Valley to become so much livelier, though, and expresses the land’s rich culture. It’s like something out of “Zorro,” who Link is the video game equivalent of to some extent.

In every “Legend of Zelda” game, you can count on exploring a couple castles. As far as music goes, the Lorule Castle theme from “A Link Between Worlds” just might be our favorite. It’s so whimsical and yet alarming. The building score emits a sense of emergency throughout that constantly leaves you on edge and wondering what’s around the corner. The deeper you get into the castle, the more instruments are added to the score, building the sense of an imminent climax. The theme essentially sums up what it feels like to be an adventurer storming a castle: Excited, afraid, curious, and gallant.

Ah, now this is much more relaxing. When the stresses of fighting monsters, searching dungeons, and rescuing princesses gets to you, visiting a calming setting like Kakariko Village will help you unwind. The musical theme exemplifies the village’s laidback nature and warm culture. It’s as if you’re passing through a simple farmland where you can converse with friendly folk, kick back with a couple glasses of milk, and take in the fresh, country air. After Zelda is saved, this would be a great place to retire and live in peace.

The Dark World plays a huge role throughout “A Link to the Past” and “A Link Between Worlds.” In both games, this parallel dimension comes complete with one of the franchise’s finest musical themes. Being called “The Dark World,” you’d expect the score to be menacing and grim, but it’s actually pretty fun and playful – but with a noticeable darker tone. In A Link Between Worlds, when you’re nearing the end of your quest, the theme gets a major overhaul with a full orchestral backing, giving it the added punch need to see you through to the finale.

Unlike in some other games where the princess is just a prize to be won,Zelda is an individual that you genuinely want to save. We’re reminded ofZelda’s kind heart and warm presence every time we hear her lullaby. Playing this sacred song in Ocarina of Time makes the player feel like they’re connected to the princess and pushes them to keep fighting for her. The same can be said about (xref) Ballad of the Goddess from “Skyward Sword,” which is interestingly just Zelda’s Lullaby played in reverse.

This is among the most haunting and strangest themes in the “Zelda” musical library, which is fitting given what a dark game “Majora’s Mask” is. The Song of Healing is designed to aid tormented souls and the composers convey that sensation masterfully. It doesn’t exactly sound comforting, but it does evoke a spiritual, transcendent presence. As thesong goes on, you start to feel safer and uplifted, like the bad vibes in your system have all been washed away. Sadly, it can’t heal you if the moon crushes the world.

Before close out with our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions:

Title Screen
“The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker” (2002)
Midna’s Lament
“The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess” (2006)
Song of Storms
“The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time” (1998)
Final Hours
“The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask” (2000)
Dragon Roost Island
“The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker” (2002)

How could number one be anything other than this timeless theme? Koji Kondo’s defining piece of music has accompanied the series ever since Link entered the overworld in the original NES classic. The main theme has gone through several variations over the years, but every version has represented the quintessence of “Zelda.” It’s mystical, magical, daring, and makes sitting on the couch playing a video game feel like an epic journey. It further reminds us of the huge role music has played in “The Legend of Zelda,” enriching each gaming experience.

Do you agree with our list? What’s your favorite Legend of Zelda song? For more entertaining Top 10s published every day, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.