The Art of Sound in Games: My Top 10 Picks for Best Sound Design

When I think about what makes a video game truly unforgettable, sound design stands out as one of the key elements. It’s not just about the music or the effects—it’s about how every sound shapes the world, deepens the experience, and makes you feel like you are part of something bigger. Here’s my personal list of games that nailed their sound design:

1. The Last of Us Part II

For me, this game is an emotional rollercoaster, and the sound design makes it hit even harder. The tension in every creak, the way enemy sounds make your heart race, and the little details in Ellie’s movements—it’s just brilliant.

2. Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

The use of binaural audio in this game is mind-blowing. Playing with headphones, it feels like the voices in Senua’s head are right there, swirling around you. The sound design puts you in her shoes, and it’s haunting.

3. Red Dead Redemption 2

The Wild West comes alive in this game. From the sound of your boots crunching through snow to the howling of wolves in the distance, the sound design pulls you right into the world of Arthur Morgan.

4. DOOM (2016)

DOOM is chaos, pure and simple—and the sound design reflects that perfectly. The heavy metal soundtrack combined with visceral weapon effects keeps your adrenaline pumping from start to finish.

5. Journey

This game is a sensory masterpiece. The way the sounds interact with your movements, the sand shifting beneath you, and the beautiful music blending in—it’s a meditative experience.

6. Dead Space

If you want to feel sheer terror, play “Dead Space.” The creaks of the Ishimura, the distant clanging of pipes, and the horrifying shrieks of necro morphs create an atmosphere that keeps you on edge.

7. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

This game taught me to appreciate the quiet moments. The sound of rustling grass, distant birdsong, and subtle piano notes add to the feeling of freedom and exploration.

8. Control

The supernatural vibe of “Control” owes a lot to its sound design. Distorted voices, eerie ambient noises, and the reactive sounds of the Hiss make you feel like you’re in an otherworldly government labyrinth.

9. BioShock

Rapture wouldn’t be the same without its incredible sound design. From the hum of the city to the haunting voice recordings, every sound helps tell the story of this underwater dystopia.

10. Hi-Fi Rush

This one’s just pure fun. Every move syncing perfectly to the beat, and the vibrant, rhythmic sound design make playing this game a totally unique and addictive experience.

For me, sound design is what makes a game stick in your mind long after you’ve put down the controller. These games didn’t just create worlds to explore—they created soundscapes to live in. What are your thoughts?