A new study has uncovered a surprising trend among UK gamers, revealing that more than half regularly listen to video game soundtracks even when they’re not playing. Conducted by gaming and tech retailer Currys, the research found that 52% of gamers enjoy these iconic tunes outside of gaming sessions, weaving them into everyday activities like exercising, relaxing, and even tackling household chores. This growing appreciation for video game music highlights its emotional pull and cultural significance, extending far beyond the screen.
The study pinpointed the most popular contexts for listening, with 45% of gamers turning to soundtracks during workouts or downtime. Meanwhile, 32% admitted to queuing up their favourite tracks while scrubbing dishes or vacuuming. For many, these melodies are more than background noise; they’re a bridge to the virtual worlds they love. Over 6 in 10 respondents (62%) said soundtracks deepen their emotional connection to a game, while 59% credited the music with enhancing their performance by boosting immersion. Such is the devotion that 52% would happily attend a live orchestral performance of their favourite in-game compositions.
When it came to crowning the best soundtracks, UK gamers voted Rockstar Games’ 2018 epic, Red Dead Redemption 2, as the top pick. Its haunting melodies and atmospheric depth earned it the number one spot, followed by the melancholic strains of The Last of Us from 2013. In third place was The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, released in 2015, celebrated for its sweeping, folk-inspired score. Other standout titles included the timeless Halo series, Super Mario Galaxy, and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, each resonating with players for their distinctive audio identities.
Yet popularity in gaming doesn’t always translate to streaming charts. The study also delved into Spotify data, analysing over 80 video game soundtracks to uncover the most-streamed tracks. Topping the list was “Megalovania” from Undertale, an indie gem by Toby Fox that’s clocked over 183 million streams. Known for its electrifying role in the game’s tough Sans boss fight, the track has struck a chord worldwide since its 2015 release. Close behind was “Sweden” from Minecraft, with over 176 million streams. As a nostalgic cornerstone of the best-selling game ever, its gentle piano notes evoke memories for millions. Rounding out the top three was “Blow Me Away” from Halo 2, a rock anthem by Breaking Benjamin with 108 million streams, standing out amid the game’s orchestral roots.
These streaming giants reflect a broader trend of video game music transcending its origins. Undertale’s quirky brilliance, Minecraft’s minimalist charm, and Halo’s bold energy show how diverse the appeal has become. The Currys study also listed other heavy hitters, like “BFG Division” from DOOM 2016 and “Ezio’s Family” from Assassin’s Creed II, each racking up tens of millions of plays. Even classics like “Secunda” from Skyrim and “Unshaken” from Red Dead Redemption 2 made the cut, proving that gamers’ tastes span generations and genres.
