Video games are often best remembered because of their characters, stories, worlds or even soundtracks. Often, just the sight of a famous character or level can evoke a wonderful sense of nostalgia in those who love them. However, while all of those aspects of video games are crucial, so too are the sound effects that bind them together.
From the sweet sound of digging through dirt for diamonds to the low whir of a shield recharging, there are plenty of iconic and memorable sound effects that fans would instantly be able to recognise. While many may think they're insignificant, these amazing sound effects can make a video game as memorable as they are and often make important moments that much more impressive.
7 Digging In Minecraft
Minecraft first launched back in 2011 and has since introduced numerous new features from incredible new biomes that are hard to find to a plethora of new crafting options. But, while the game has continued to grow and expand its vast horizons, the core gameplay remains intact. Whether it's surviving against hordes of zombies, building impressive castles and computers, or simply digging away to find whatever lurks beneath the dirt, Minecraft's core gameplay loop is still just as enjoyable.
That is, in large part, due to the genuinely satisfying sound effects present throughout all of Minecraft. There are a lot of really great sound effects that fans would likely recognise instantly. Many likely remember the sound that plays whenever you place a block or the one that plays as you chop down a tree. But perhaps the best sound effect in Minecraft is the one that plays whenever you dig. While it varies depending on which type of block you hit, the digging sound effects in Minecraft are undeniably satisfying. They add an extra layer of immersion and impact to such a simple task and therefore keep the repetitive gameplay loop feeling that much more compelling.
6 Mario Going Down A Pipe
Just like Minecraft, the Mario series is full of incredible and, at times, ingenious sound effects. From picking up coins to landing on a Goomba's head, there are countless sound effects that people from around the world are likely to recognise. So isolating just one sound effect is quite a difficult task, especially when considering how iconic they have all become. Nevertheless, the one that stands out above the rest is that of Mario going down a pipe.
The repetitive yet escalating sound it makes whenever Mario is squeezed into those tall green pipes not only perfectly insinuates the act of going downward, but also manages to encapsulate the sense of unknown and mystery as to what lies beneath. As most of the locations hidden within pipes tend to contain coins or stars for Mario to find, this sound is perfect for preparing the player for the sense of awe they'll feel upon discovering it.
5 Capturing A Pokemon
The only feeling quite as satisfying as discovering a brand new Pokemon for the first time is capturing it. Throwing a Poke Ball at your foe after having significantly weakened it and watching as it rocks back and forth is as nail-bitingly tense as it is exhilarating. It is the not knowing whether or not you will be successful and fear that you'll miss out on the opportunity of finally capturing this Pokemon that makes these moments so enticingly fun.
However, without that sound effect of the ball rocking side to side, the beeping noise of the Poke Ball not quite sure whether or not it has succeeded, and then the click of it finally shutting, these moments would be wasted. It truly is the sound effects that make capturing a new or familiar Pokemon that much more satisfying and fulfilling.
4 Master Chief's Shields Recharging
The Halo games are intense and frantic first-person shooters with enough excitement packed into their moderately lengthy campaigns that even beginners of the genre can enjoy. From fast-paced and deadly firefights to epic overarching narratives across each of the games, players have a lot to look forward to. But all of this wouldn't be as great if it wasn't for the excellent sound effects present in the Halo games.
From plasma grenades exploding to grunts wailing in the distance, Halo is packed full of memorable and immersive sound effects that make it such an incredibly enjoyable title. However, by far the best sound effect throughout all of the Halo games is that of the shield recharge. After dispatching his numerous foes, Master Chief needs to recharge his shields. The repetitive beeping sound lets you know that they're damaged before the low, comforting whir of the shields coming back to life reassures you that you're safe. It's a wonderful sound effect that fits the games perfectly.
3 Sonic Collecting Rings
The Sonic series has spanned decades with more sequels than most other series. Its longevity and place in pop culture are all thanks to its dedicated fanbase and occasional masterpiece. While not everyone is a fan of the titular blue hedgehog and his platforming adventures, it would be hard to deny that the series has become an iconic mainstay in both the genre and the wider zeitgeist. Similar to Mario, part of the reason the Sonic games have become so iconic is not only due to a loveable and well-designed mascot, but because of incredibly memorable sound effects.
Whether it's the boinging sound effect emitted whenever Sonic launches himself into the air or the sound of him building up momentum before blasting off into the distance, Sonic has a number of incredible sound effects. But perhaps the most memorable is that of Sonic collecting rings. The high-pitched sound effect that plays whenever you run into one of those glistening gold rings is immensely satisfying and plays perfectly into that element of a rewarding feedback loop. It simultaneously lets you know that you've accomplished something good while leaving you craving more. It is the perfect sound effect and might even trump the sound of Mario picking up his iconic golden coins.
2 Link Opening A Chest
While the jingle associated with opening a chest in the Legend of Zelda series is iconic enough, it is the triumphant sound effect that plays afterward that makes the sensation of discovering them that much more satisfying. Chests range from being a rare discovery to bountiful rewards depending on which Legend of Zelda game you play. However, no matter how frequently you come across them, receiving whatever lies within is just as satisfying.
The sound that plays whenever Link lifts up the item he has found has become a truly iconic sound effect. In a way, it has almost become synonymous with opening chests themselves as it perfectly personifies the task of discovering something new and amazing. While The Legend of Zelda games are packed with plenty of great sound effects, it is this one that is truly the best.
1 The Metal Gear Alert
The Metal Gear games are often considered the best stealth games ever made. The innovations made from the first game onward have been copied ad nauseum ever since, and even the earlier titles remain seminal experiences for many players. While the mechanics and gameplay elements have changed somewhat across each entry into the series, the most recognisable sound effect has remained the same.
The alert sound effect that plays whenever the player is discovered is truly iconic. Not only does it perfectly encapsulate the feeling of stumbling across something surprising, but it also instils a level of dread and terror in a way no other sound could have really accomplished. While it is a simple and even comedic sound effect to a degree, it perfectly accomplishes what it needs to and remains a sound effect that is both beloved and feared.