Daily Debate: What are the Best Dungeon Theme Songs in the Zelda Franchise?
Posted on November 21 2023 by Josh Wittmershaus
One of the most adored elements of all Zelda games has been its music. Is it even more revered than Zelda‘s legendary dungeons? That’s a debate for another time. However, some of the most noteworthy songs from the franchise don’t come from its puzzling levels and lairs, but other environments instead — think of the areas where we learn songs like “Kokiri Forest,” “The Great Sea,” and “Ballad of the Goddess.”
So, I think it’s healthy to annually revisit what we think is the best dungeon music throughout Zelda. Last year, the Face Shrine from Link’s Awakening and the Spirit Temple from Ocarina of Time were mentioned in the article, with Majora’s Mask‘s “Stone Tower Temple” and Ocarina of Time‘s “Forest Temple” dominating the comments for the most part.
Here’s my top five musical dungeon themes in the franchise (without thinking too hard about it):
- “Inside the Deku Tree” (Ocarina of Time): The padding that stretches throughout this song, reverberating off the walls of the tree, sets a symphony that sets the tone for the rest of the game. It commands awe.
- “Palace Theme 1” (The Adventure of Link): For a game that often receives criticism, this dungeon theme is often found not just on dungeon theme lists, but all-time Zelda songs. It makes the experience of playing Adventures of Link just a little less difficult.
- “Ancient Cistern” (Skyward Sword): Ancient is certainly the vibe that this song gives off. The tune can feel light-hearted at times, but simultaneously carry implications of the importance of this place and what it means for Link and Hyrule.
- “Stone Tower Temple” (Majora’s Mask): This might be the most frequent visitor the top dungeon theme lists for fans. If it weren’t for the persistent chanting sounds in the background, this song might almost feel happy. However, the choice of instruments used and the environment you’re surrounded in as the song plays make for an enveloping atmosphere of mystery and macabre.
- “Forest Temple” (Ocarina of Time): I had actually forgotten about this song until a recent playthrough a few years back. There’s something about the echoes, the tempo, the timbre, that come together to make this such a memorable dungeon tune. What I love most about it is how the song tells a story of the tension that fills the emptiness of the temple.
Here’s an honorable mention: “Skull Dungeon” from Oracle of Ages. This is a catchy little tune, and the hipster’s choice, in my opinion!
What do you think of my list? What’s your favorite dungeon theme songs in Zelda? Let us know in the comments!
Josh Wittmershaus is a writer at Zelda Dungeon. Originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, he now resides in Northern California. Aside from Zelda, Josh enjoys playing music, seeing live music, music history, and all other things music. He also enjoys skating, hockey, and the occasional political or philosophical thought exercise.
