Classical music has long been a cornerstone of video game soundtracks, serving as a rich tapestry against which developers have woven their narratives. From the early days of three-channel sound chips to the complex compositions of today, the influence of classical pieces is undeniable. Philippe Vachey’s work, which incorporates compositions by Johann Strauss and Saint-Saëns, exemplifies this trend, creating an atmosphere that enhances gameplay. Titles like Catherine have even featured half-naked sheep men navigating challenges to the stirring notes of Chopin’s Revolutionary Etude, while Grand Theft Auto 3 allowed players to engage in chaotic mayhem accompanied by an entire radio station dedicated to classical music.
Welcome to Soundtrack Sunday, where a member of the PC Gamer team takes a look at a soundtrack from one of their favourite games—or a broader look at videogame music as a whole—offering a little backstory and recommendations for tracks you should be adding to your playlist.
Among the latest entries in this evolving genre is Pump it Up Rise. Although I have yet to experience it firsthand, I have observed countless players engaging with its vibrant offerings, which are filled with classical remixes that have become a hallmark of the series since its inception in 1999. This rhythm game, which boldly challenged Dance Dance Revolution, has carved out a unique niche with its five-panel dance mat and a blend of South Korean hip hop alongside classical music remixes.
Sick Beets
The remixes, crafted by a collective known as BanYa, showcase a creative fusion of genres. For instance, Take The Devil reimagines Edvard Grieg’s In the Hall of the Mountain King with electric guitar and classical strings, while Turkey March offers a fresh take on Mozart’s Rondo alla Turca. BanYa even draws inspiration from contemporary hits, as seen in Mr. Larpus, which is heavily influenced by The Surfaris’ iconic Wipe Out.
My personal favorites emerge from tracks where BanYa allows the strings to take center stage. Winter, based on Vivaldi’s piece of the same name, combines a heavy beat with strings and features an unexpected guitar solo that adds a modern twist. Then there’s Beethoven Virus, arguably the most renowned classical remix from Pump it Up, which transforms Beethoven’s Pathetique 3rd Movement into an epic rendition that showcases both the brilliance of the strings and the thrill of shredding guitar solos.
The ingenuity with which BanYa has adapted classical compositions into engaging tracks is impressive, maintaining its appeal nearly two decades after many of these songs were first released. While Pump it Up stands out, it is not alone in the realm of rhythm games. Titles like Audition Online and Super Dancer Online have also incorporated orchestral pieces alongside pop tracks, while Trombone Champ gained popularity in 2022 for its humorous takes on various classical pieces.
Drumming game Taiko no Tatsujin features an entire Classics folder, and last year’s Maestro allowed players to step into the role of a conductor in a virtual orchestra. Even Deemo, while primarily focused on contemporary styles, includes an Etude collection that pays homage to historical pieces.
The prevalence of classical music in rhythm games can be attributed to its emotional resonance and nostalgic familiarity. This is evident in titles like BioShock Infinite, where Booker DeWitt explores the Hall of Heroes, or Fallout 4, which features a Classical Radio station. Beyond emotional engagement, the practicality of using classical music stems from copyright considerations. Compositions by Beethoven and Mozart, now in the public domain, provide an accessible way for developers to enrich their soundtracks without the complexities of original compositions.
As a fan of rhythm games, I appreciate the comfort and familiarity that classical tracks bring, allowing players to learn the ropes with melodies that resonate on multiple levels. While many games incorporate classical music, Pump it Up remains unparalleled in its execution. I eagerly anticipate diving into the new stepcharts for keyboards and the Steam Deck, though I might need to be pulled away from the arcade version of Beethoven Virus first.
