Most genres collide with music. Fact is, without music, television shows would be missing something, and action movies wouldn’t feel the same. It applies to the gaming genre too, with music playing an integral role in the overall gaming experience. We have even been exposed to a selection of music-themed video games over the years, too, with some titles bearing the name of world-famous stars and others featuring music from much-loved rock bands.
For fans of music, these types of releases can be appealing. Some titles are memorable for all the right reasons, while others really failed to deliver, appearing to be nothing more than a money-making exercise from the music star and developer in question. In the past, there have been some absolute shockers. It’s even common to see various bands and famous music featured in modern-day games, too, with smash-hit 70s movie Grease being turned into an online slot game. Likewise, we’ve seen bands have their music featured in specific titles and a selection of games being solely dedicated to a pop star. Even Katy Perry celebrated 25 years of Pokémon with a collaborative track, highlighting once again just how common it is for these two different genres to come together.
Today, though, we’re focussing on video games that have featured various bands and musicians. Some titles have gone down as memorable classics, while others are most definitely worth forgetting about. With that in mind, below is a look at some music-themed video games.
Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker
Somewhat ironically, Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker featured the legendary pop star as he took out suited thugs and rescued kidnapped children. Featuring the odd cameo appearance from Jackson’s beloved chimp called Bubbles, it was a fun arcade-style product which did reasonably well when it released in 1990. Jacko played his part in the creation of the title too, eventually leading him to get involved in other games such as Space Channel 5 and Michael Jackson: The Experience.
Crue Ball
Featuring Motley Crue in what is a pinball video game, Crue Ball was a well-received title at the time of its release in 1992. A standard pinball game except with classic tracks from the band such as “Dr Feelgood” and “Live Wire”, Motley Crue fans might remember this one.
Frankie Goes to Hollywood
Released in 1985, Frankie Goes to Hollywood was initially launched on computers in Britain and offered fans with a truly hilarious gaming experience. The aim of the game was to boost your sex, war, love and religious attributes, in a hugely odd title featuring the English synth-pop band from Liverpool. You would have to solve murders, complete various mini-games, and a whole host of other challenges on Liverpool’s streets.
Journey: Escape
To accompany the release of their new album with the same name in 1981, Journey teamed up with developers Data Age to create a game that was available to play on the Atari 2600 console in 1982. Playing the role of a manager, players had to escort band members away from a crowded post-gig area and avoid hordes of groupies and sly photographers. Can you get to the Journey Escape Vehicle in time for the next show?
Revolution X
Ever wanted to save Aerosmith from a New Order Nation regime and their evil leader, Helga? Didn’t think so, but that’s exactly what Revolution X has to offer in what is a really bizarre game to tuck into. It’s even odder when you discover that your weapon doesn’t fire bullets, instead taking down enemies with ammunition made up of compact discs. Saving youth culture never felt so strange.