The online gaming industry is no stranger to pleasant melodies. Just think about the games you play frequently and there’s a good chance that many of them make use of a popular soundtrack or hit song for background music. These tunes accompany gameplay experiences, turning ordinary sessions into entertaining spectacles. But what about when a game doesn't come with music, or when you prefer to game with your own curated playlists - what do you listen to in these circumstances? Well, in this article we give some suggestions for appropriate music stylings in accordance with different gaming genres. So, sit back and take notes in order to make your next gaming session that much more fun.

Image credit: UnsplashBelieve it or not, music is an integral part of gaming / Image credit: Unsplash

First-Person Shooter Games

First-person shooter games are one of the most popular gaming genres of the current moment, with a myriad of titles like the Call of Duty franchise and SWAT being played by millions of people. These games are well-known for having immersive, blood-pumping soundtracks to complement the combat-like gameplay experience. However, if you’re in the mood for something of your own when engaged in these high-energy and fast-paced games, we recommend either rock, heavy metal, or grunge. Classic bands like Pink Floyd, Weezer, Iron Maiden and Radiohead will definitely do the trick. Here’s an ideal FPS playlist that includes all these legends and more for your next session.

Online Casino Games

Online casino games are well-known for having fun jingles and riffs play in the background during gameplay. Slots are a great example of this with their spinning reels that boast many different sounds depending on the type of slot and its theme. But what about games like Blackjack and Roulette and all the other varieties of titles in the table games category? When playing these games, great music to listen to includes everything from rock to upbeat, electronic or pop soundtracks that are every bit as thrilling as they are engaging. Since music can both motivate and entertain, it’s essential when gaming. There are also some casino-themed hits out there, from Motörhead’s “Ace of Spades” to AC/DC’s “The Jack” and many more for players to choose from.

Image credit: UnsplashCurate your own playlists to be prepared for every type of gaming experience / Image credit: Unsplash

Life-Simulation Games

The first life simulation game that probably comes to mind for most gamers is the ever-popular Sims series, first launched 22 years ago in February 2000. Music has always been a central focal point of the Sims and life-simulation games in general, but some gamers prefer to mute the music that comes with these titles in favor of their own playlists. Since life-simulation games rely on the player navigating a life-like avatar through a realistic universe that very much resembles our own, it’s the perfect setting to jam out to some of your favorite artists and hit songs that you already frequently listen to. Life-sim games easily lend themselves to music, so really any type of musical genre works here.

Puzzle Games

Puzzle games require players to really concentrate and focus on the task at hand. After all, there is a puzzle to be solved! Therefore, the best music that accompanies this type of gameplay is arguably instrumental or classical music that has been proven to enhance productivity. It also comes in handy for those attempting to manipulate shapes and solve spatial puzzles. Not to mention music without the presence of lyrics calms the player and eliminates distraction, allowing them to better focus on problem-solving. This may depend on the player and the level of concentration they can maintain at all times, but this musical genre is generally a safe bet for puzzle solvers of all types and personalities.

So, there you have it! Next time you come across one of these gaming genres, refer back to this article for tips on what to listen to. And for all the music lovers out there, gamers or non-gamers alike, take a look at this set of brand-new musical albums that are sure to delight the ears of people worldwide when they hit market shelves.