Gaming has come a long way since its inception, evolving into a multi-billion dollar industry that captivates people of all ages and backgrounds. The popularity of video games has not only led to the creation of memorable characters and storylines, but it has also inspired a number of musicians to pay homage to the gaming world through their songs. From nostalgic retro-style chiptunes to contemporary electronic beats, the music genre has something to offer for every type of gamer. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 20 songs about gaming that capture the spirit of adventure, competition, and escapism that makes playing video games such a beloved pastime. From classic tracks like “Still Alive” by Jonathan Coulton, to more recent hits like “Level Up” by Ciara, these songs showcase the versatility and versatility of the gaming-inspired music genre. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or simply enjoy the sounds of 8-bit nostalgia, this list has something for everyone.
1. “All In My Head” by Whethan
“All In My Head” is an upbeat electronic pop track by the American DJ and producer Whethan. The song features dreamy vocals and a catchy melody that invites listeners to dance along. The lyrics describe the feeling of being consumed by thoughts of someone, with the chorus repeating the phrase “It’s all in my head.” The production combines lush synths, pulsing beats, and smooth basslines to create an energetic and uplifting atmosphere. The overall mood of the track is optimistic and carefree, making it perfect for a party or a pick-me-up on a dull day. Whether you’re a fan of Whethan or just looking for some uplifting music, “All In My Head” is sure to brighten up your day.
2. “Pinball Wizard” by The Who
“Pinball Wizard” is a classic rock anthem by the iconic British band The Who. The song was featured in the rock opera “Tommy,” and tells the story of a young man who is a pinball champion, despite being deaf, dumb, and blind. The driving rhythm of the song, combined with the catchy melody, makes it a staple of classic rock radio. The lyrics, written by Pete Townshend, are witty and clever, painting a vivid picture of the pinball wizard in action. The song is a prime example of The Who’s signature sound, which combined elements of hard rock, pop, and classic rock. With its memorable chorus and upbeat energy, “Pinball Wizard” remains one of The Who’s most beloved tracks, and continues to be a staple of their live performances.
3. “Take Over” by Jeremy McKinnon (A Day To Remember) ft. MAX, Henry
“Take Over” is an upbeat pop punk track by American musician Jeremy McKinnon of the band A Day To Remember, featuring the vocalists MAX and Henry. The song opens with a burst of energy, with pounding drums, crunchy guitar riffs, and a catchy melody. The lyrics describe taking control of your life and breaking free from negativity, with the chorus repeating the phrase “Gonna take over.” The collaboration between McKinnon and the vocalists MAX and Henry creates a dynamic and powerful sound that blends elements of pop punk, alternative rock, and electronic music. With its driving beat, singalong chorus, and uplifting message, “Take Over” is a high-energy anthem that will get you pumped up and ready to conquer the day. Whether you’re a fan of A Day To Remember or just looking for some motivational music, “Take Over” is sure to get you moving.
4. “Little Games” by The Yardbirds
“Little Games” is a classic rock track by the British band The Yardbirds. The song was released in 1967 and showcases the band’s blend of blues-inspired rock and psychedelic sounds. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a prominent organ line that provides a distinctive and playful atmosphere. The lyrics, written by Jim McCarty and Keith Relf, are a playful commentary on the superficial games that people play in relationships. The Yardbirds’ signature sound, characterized by their heavy use of blues-influenced guitar licks, is in full force on “Little Games,” making it a standout track in their discography. With its upbeat energy and infectious melody, “Little Games” remains a classic of the psychedelic rock genre, and continues to be a fan favorite. Whether you’re a fan of The Yardbirds or just enjoy classic rock, “Little Games” is a must-listen.
5. “Game On” by Waka Flocka Flame
“Game On” by Waka Flocka Flame is a high-energy hip-hop track that showcases the rapper’s distinctive delivery and aggressive flow. The song features a pounding beat, layered with synth stabs and explosive basslines, creating a sonic landscape that perfectly complements Waka’s rapped verses. Throughout the song, Waka raps about his determination to succeed in the music industry, declaring that the game is on and he is ready to win. The chorus is infectious and catchy, with Waka’s repeated chant of “Game On” serving as a rallying cry for listeners to join him in his pursuit of success. With its intense energy and powerful message, “Game On” is a standout track from Waka’s discography, making it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop and rap.
6. “Roll of the Dice” by Bruce Springsteen
“Roll of the Dice” by Bruce Springsteen is a haunting ballad that showcases the legendary singer-songwriter’s ability to create powerful, emotive music. The song features a simple, acoustic guitar-driven melody that sets the stage for Springsteen’s lyrics, which tell the story of a restless traveler in search of adventure and meaning. Throughout the song, Springsteen sings of the excitement and uncertainty of life on the road, likening it to the roll of the dice. The chorus is particularly powerful, with Springsteen’s voice rising in intensity as he sings, “It’s a roll of the dice, never knowin’ what you’ll get.” “Roll of the Dice” is a standout track from Springsteen’s 1992 album, “Human Touch,” and is a testament to his enduring ability to craft memorable, emotionally charged music.
7. “Pac-Man Fever” by Buckner & Garcia
“Pac-Man Fever” by Buckner & Garcia is a classic novelty song that pays homage to the iconic video game, Pac-Man. The song features a quirky, electronic melody that perfectly captures the frenzied energy of the game, complete with beeps and boops that sound like a Pac-Man arcade machine. The lyrics are lighthearted and playful, with the singers recounting their love for the game and the various challenges it presents. The chorus is particularly catchy, with the singers declaring “Pac-Man Fever” and singing about their addiction to the game. Despite being released in 1982, “Pac-Man Fever” remains a beloved and timeless tribute to one of the most iconic video games of all time, making it a must-listen for fans of video game music and nostalgia.
8. “Computer Games” by Mi-Sex
“Computer Games” by Mi-Sex is a upbeat, synth-pop track that was a hit in the early 1980s. The song features a pulsing beat, intricate keyboard work, and catchy hooks that are sure to get stuck in your head. The lyrics reflect the increasing role of technology in daily life, with the singer lamenting the fact that people are spending more time in front of computers and less time interacting with each other. Despite the somewhat negative message, the overall tone of the song is upbeat and energetic, making it a classic example of early synth-pop. With its catchy melody and memorable chorus, “Computer Games” is a timeless anthem for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by technology and longed for a simpler time.
9. “Game Over” by Falling in Reverse
“Game Over” by Falling in Reverse is an energetic post-hardcore track that features driving riffs, heavy basslines, and explosive drumming. The song showcases the band’s unique blend of metal, punk, and electronic elements, creating a high-energy sonic landscape that perfectly complements the lyrics. The lyrics tell the story of a person who has reached the end of their rope and is ready to give up, declaring that the game is over. Throughout the song, the singer alternates between raw, screamed vocals and melodic, sung sections, creating a dynamic and emotionally charged performance. With its intense energy and powerful message, “Game Over” is a standout track from Falling in Reverse’s discography and is sure to be a hit with fans of post-hardcore and heavy music.
10. “Kernkraft 4000” by Zombie Nation
“Kernkraft 400” by Zombie Nation is a classic techno-trance track that was a hit in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The song features a driving beat, infectious synth melody, and catchy “Uh!” chant that have made it a staple of dance music for decades. The lyrics are minimal, consisting of a repeating chant that gives the song a hypnotic, trance-like quality. Despite its simplicity, “Kernkraft 400” has been widely regarded as one of the greatest techno-trance tracks of all time, and has been covered, remixed, and sampled countless times over the years. With its upbeat energy and undeniable hook, “Kernkraft 400” is a timeless dance classic that continues to be a staple of electronic dance music to this day.
11. “PAC-MAN” by Gorillaz feat. ScHoolboy Q
“PAC-MAN” by Gorillaz feat. ScHoolboy Q is a funky, electronic-rap track that pays homage to the classic video game of the same name. The song features catchy electronic beats, accompanied by lively guitar riffs, and ScHoolboy Q’s energetic rap verses, as he raps about his love for the game and how it’s a part of his childhood memories. The music video features an animated version of the band playing the game, as well as various PAC-MAN inspired visuals. The track is a nostalgic, upbeat tribute to the beloved game and will surely get you grooving with its infectious energy.
12. “My Console” by Eiffel 65
“My Console” by Eiffel 65 is a high-energy dance-pop track that pays homage to the world of video gaming. The song features upbeat, catchy synth beats, playful vocal samples, and a chorus that proudly declares the narrator’s love for their video game console. The lyrics are playful and celebratory, conveying the excitement and joy that comes from playing games and escaping into virtual worlds. The music video features retro-futuristic computer graphics and characters, adding to the playful and nostalgic vibe of the track. “My Console” is a fun and upbeat tribute to the world of gaming and will get you moving on the dance floor.
13. “Warriors” by Imagine Dragons
“Warriors” by Imagine Dragons is an anthemic, stadium-rock track that inspires listeners to rise up and fight for their beliefs. The song features a driving beat, powerful guitar riffs, and soaring vocals, as the narrator invites listeners to join the fight and become warriors themselves. The lyrics are empowering and encouraging, urging listeners to believe in themselves and never give up. The music video features a futuristic, post-apocalyptic world, with the band playing amidst the chaos and destruction. “Warriors” is a rousing and uplifting track that will pump you up and give you the courage to face any challenge that comes your way.
14. “Nintendo Game” by Alessia Cara
“Nintendo Game” by Alessia Cara is a nostalgic, dreamy track that pays homage to the classic video games of the past. The song features mellow beats, mellifluous vocals, and whimsical lyrics, as the narrator reminisces about playing games on her Nintendo console. The lyrics are playful and bittersweet, capturing the innocence and carefree spirit of childhood, while also reflecting on the bittersweet reality of growing up. The music video features a retro-futuristic world, with Cara singing and playing games on her Nintendo console, surrounded by brightly-colored landscapes and characters. “Nintendo Game” is a charming and nostalgic track that will take you back to the simpler days of childhood and the joys of playing video games.
15. “Welcome to Los Santos” by Oh No
“Welcome to Los Santos” is a hip-hop track produced by Oh No and serves as the main theme for the open-world video game “Grand Theft Auto V.” The beat is upbeat and energetic, featuring a sample-based instrumental with a strong bassline and a catchy piano melody. The lyrics describe the gritty, crime-ridden streets of the fictional city of Los Santos, painting a vivid picture of the dangerous and decadent world that players are about to enter. The song sets the tone for the game’s over-the-top and often humorous take on gang culture and the American Dream gone wrong.
16. “Snake Eater” by Cynthia Harrell
“Snake Eater” by Cynthia Harrell is a haunting and powerful ballad featured in the popular video game “Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater.” The song is sung in English and Russian, reflecting the game’s Cold War setting. The lyrics tell a story of a snake eater, a soldier who is able to overcome any obstacle and always comes out on top. The melody is emotional and dramatic, with a soaring vocal performance from Harrell that perfectly captures the game’s themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and survival. The song has become one of the most recognizable and beloved tracks in the Metal Gear franchise, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest video game songs of all time.
17. “Bliss” by Muse
“Bliss” is a high-energy rock song by the British band Muse, featured on their album “Origin of Symmetry.” The song is characterized by its fast-paced guitar riffs, pounding drums, and grandiose vocal performance from frontman Matt Bellamy. The lyrics deal with themes of escapism, searching for meaning and purpose in a chaotic world, and the idea that true happiness can only be found within oneself. The song’s powerful chorus and soaring instrumental sections are a hallmark of Muse’s signature sound, combining elements of alternative, progressive, and classical rock to create a unique and thrilling musical experience. “Bliss” is widely regarded as one of the band’s greatest tracks, and has become a staple of their live shows.
18. “Video Games” by Lana Del Rey
“Video Games” is a dreamy, melancholic ballad by American singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey. The song was her debut single and helped to establish her as one of the most distinctive and enigmatic voices in contemporary pop music. The song’s production features hazy, atmospheric electronics, a slow, steady beat, and a haunting, soaring vocal performance from Del Rey. The lyrics describe a relationship where the singer finds herself increasingly enamored with her partner’s obsession with video games, and the sense of detachment and loneliness that comes from being relegated to a passive role in his life. “Video Games” has become one of Del Rey’s best-known songs, and has been widely praised for its raw, emotional delivery and its nostalgic, melancholy atmosphere.
19. “Space Invaders” by Player One/Playback
“Space Invaders” by Player One/Playback is a classic dance track from the early days of electronic music. The song is named after the popular arcade game “Space Invaders,” and its instrumental is built around the iconic 8-bit sounds and blips of classic video games. The track features a fast, energetic beat and a catchy, repetitive melody that make it perfect for the dance floor. Despite its simplicity, “Space Invaders” has remained a popular club track and a staple of nostalgic electronic music compilations. The song’s impact on the dance music scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s can’t be overstated, and it is widely regarded as one of the earliest and most influential tracks in the history of electronic dance music.
20. “The Legend of Zelda” by Rap Smosh
“The Legend of Zelda” by Rap Smosh is a comedic hip-hop tribute to the classic video game series of the same name. The song features fast-paced, tongue-in-cheek rhymes that recount the adventures of the hero, Link, as he battles against the evil Ganon and saves the Princess Zelda. The beat is upbeat and energetic, incorporating classic video game sound effects and music into the mix. The lyrics are filled with references to the games and their iconic characters, and the song is sure to delight fans of the series with its humorous take on the classic adventure. Despite its comedic nature, “The Legend of Zelda” is a well-crafted rap track that showcases the talents of Smosh and their love for the classic video game franchise.
Macey West is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
