Following the recent release of Return to Monkey Island – officially released on September 19th – we decided to dive into the history of this iconic videogame franchise, to (re) discover the best music of the various titles.
The first chapter of Monkey Island dates back to 1990, with the name of The Secret of Monkey Island. The game was born from an idea of Ron Gilbert and with the important contribution to the music of Michael Land, which will subsequently sign numerous videogame soundtracks (SimCity 4, The Bard’s Tale just to name a few). The Monkey Island saga comprises a total of six titles, which make up one of the most recognizable franchises ever.
Our selection of the best Monkey Island music
This will inevitably be a nostalgic article, so we might as well start with the official remake of the main theme of the very first chapter of the saga. Flute, percussion and a pressing bass line. We are in 1990. We are in the first Monkey Island (but with a decidedly contemporary touch). If, on the other hand, you really want to go back in time, here you will find the roughest original version.
“This is the sound of my childhood” writes one user in the comments section of the video. And we’re sure you speak for an entire generation.
Villains are only real villains if they have very suggestive music. And LeChuck really has very suggestive music. Dance pirates, dance (and try to escape the undead enemy).
Can you hear the sound of the waves as a coconut falls from the tree and a pirate ship can be seen in the distance? If the answer is no, close your eyes and click play. Indeed, maybe first click on play and then close your eyes.
Sometimes dreamy, sometimes extremely disturbing, with a sense of sad joy. The Underfround Tunnels is a staple on the podium of the best songs in the Monkey Island saga.
If you hear this theme it only means one thing: you are on Scabb Island and Largo is hunting you. He doesn’t run away from Scabb Island, so we might as well enjoy the music.
Once arrested and thrown in jail on Phatt Island, this music will brighten your time in the cell. There are people who have asked for a life sentence in game just to be able to hear it.
Yes, we know, it’s a 1990 game. But there’s nothing wrong with throwing in some eighties sound, right? Absolutely no.
Shamelessly, but in an absolutely non-trivial way, the theme of the first chapter, Return to Monkey Island immediately sets the record straight: this game is a return to origins. Moreover, here you will find our review.
And who said that pirates can’t like reggae beats? Actually calling it reggae would be an understatement. Inside there is swing, jazz and lots and lots and lots of piracy (no, not in that sense).
Nothing cheers naval combat more than good background music. The Sea Battles will be captioned, but it plays its role perfectly.