Music makes the world go round. A cute saying but it also rings true. Music and sound play critical roles in any medium to create the right moods and atmospheres so much so that they can feel taken for granted.
Although a key aspect in most video games, some games make music and sound a focus and core component through the use of gameplay mechanics, world, and story. With interesting directions and unique gameplay experiences to be had, players who are avid music lovers (or would like to experience something extraordinary) should pick up the following titles and go to town on them.
8 The Artful Escape
A platform game that focuses on young Francis who is on a journey to create the ultimate rock persona, the Artful Escape can be described as a rock space opera that is heavily inspired by the music and psychedelic era of the ’70s and 80s.
Featuring incredible, gorgeous artwork and fantastic music from that era, the game is a delight for anyone who is a fan of classic rock and likes visuals that ‘pop’. Though the storyline and gameplay don’t demonstrate anything new or revolutionary, the game does remind its players just how wonderful and magical games can still be.
7 Sayonara Wild Hearts
Self-described as a ‘dreamy arcade game’, Sayonara Wild Hearts is a full dream-pop album that’s disguised as a rhythm-based video game. The game features 23 distinct levels and follows a young girl who must unite the fractured arcana into becoming whole again.
Featuring skateboarding, sword fights, robot wolves, towns on fire, tarot cards, and Sailor Moon-like combat, the game always brings out something new, and yet it's laden with nostalgia. Whether one is a veteran gamer or a casual one, there is something for everyone within this hidden gem.
6 Stifled
Stifled takes the horror genre to a different level. It features players having to use sound or echolocation to map out their surroundings and make their way through various levels. The issue is that monsters can hear the player every time a sound is made. Pretty cool concept huh?
With beautiful graphics, an innovative design, and solid voice acting, the game will appeal to both horror fans and gamers looking for a unique experience. The game also features VR and microphone input options to enhance the immersion. But players have been warned.
5 The Vale: Shadow Of The Crown
Put into the shoes of a blind princess navigating her way through a kingdom being invaded, The Vale attempts to create a unique sound-based fantasy experience. Players have described the game to be extremely immersive as they rely on their ears to handle matters of conversation and especially, combat.
The game is accessible to those who are visually impaired and offers players who have healthy sight to experience a story that features original dialogue, worldbuilding, and interesting characters. This is a must experience for anyone looking to try something different within the fantasy genre.
4 No Straight Roads
No Straight Roads is a rock n roll duo who must utilize the power of rock to take down a corrupt music empire that only accepts EDM. The game is a combination of music-inspired adventure mashed up with third-person combat and an awesome soundtrack to go with it.
Taking influences from games such as Psychonauts, No Straight Roads will intrigue players with its unique level designs and addictive soundtracks. Developed by a Malaysian studio, gamers from South East Asia or who are familiar with that region will particularly appreciate the cultural nuances and elements from that part of the world and have a blast at the same time.
3 Wandersong
A fantastical, heart-warming tale about a little bard who must save the world through music, Wandersong is a creative gem that should be played by all. A platform game where Little Bard can manipulate objects with his voice, the game features uplifting music and bright visuals. Though deceptively cute, the game does go to some dark places and touches on some mature themes.
Yet the game is ultimately about hope, making friends, and achieving the impossible through determination and self-belief. If there’s ever a feel-good game out there, it’s this one.
2 Crypt Of The NecroDancer
A roguelike game that sets the beat, Crypt Of The NecroDancer is a great game that allows players to enjoy a rogue-lite experience and jam to their tunes whilst doing it. Fans of the game ultimately say that Crypt is challenging yet satisfying in how the difficulty scales.
A must for any fans of the roguelike genre, Crypt can be an excellent gateway title for music or rhythm-based games. Polished, addicting, and featuring many unique aspects, players should give the game a go and then go eyes-wide when they see how many hours they’ve put into it.
1 Unheard
Voted overwhelmingly positive on Steam, Unheard has players take on the role of ‘acoustic detectives’ who must solve cases by listening to and replaying crime scenes. The game challenges players by only providing visuals that include the location’s floor plan, character silhouettes, and their respective voices.
Players can feel like real detectives attempting to decipher clues by choosing which pieces of information are important or not regarding the timeline of the case. It won’t be a surprising feat if players decide to finish the game in just one sitting.