Here Are 5 Video Games That Inspire Metal Musicians

June 10, 2026 - 04:46

Video games and metal music have always shared a strange, heavy bond. From chugging riffs to dark fantasy worlds, the two mediums feed off each other. But which games actually inspire the musicians behind the blast beats and guttural vocals? Exploring Birdsong, a progressive metal act known for their cinematic sound, recently broke down five titles that keep showing up in band practice rooms and tour vans.

First up is "Castlevania: Symphony of the Night." The gothic architecture, the melancholic violin melodies, and the sense of lonely exploration mirror the atmosphere of doom and black metal. Many guitarists admit to learning their first minor scales by trying to play along with the game's soundtrack.

Next is "Doom" (2016). This one is almost too obvious. The relentless pace, the heavy industrial grind, and the sheer aggression translate directly into modern metal production. Drummers often cite the game's rhythm as a perfect template for fast, precise double-bass patterns.

"Dark Souls" appears on almost every list. The game's punishing difficulty, its bleak world, and the quiet moments before a boss fight capture the emotional weight that metal bands try to convey. The feeling of struggling against impossible odds is a core theme in both the game and the genre.

"Final Fantasy VII" might seem like an odd choice, but its sweeping orchestral themes and character-driven stories inspire the more melodic side of metal. The game's use of leitmotifs--recurring musical themes for specific characters--is a technique many progressive metal bands borrow for their own concept albums.

Finally, "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" earns a spot for its musical puzzles and sense of adventure. The game teaches players that music is a tool for solving problems, not just background noise. Metal musicians appreciate that philosophy, especially when writing complex time signatures or layered harmonies.

These games are not just time-wasters. They are textbooks for rhythm, atmosphere, and storytelling. For metal musicians, a good video game is often the first spark for a new riff or a full album concept.