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Dr. Mario Soundtrack - Chill

Even after playing the so-called definitive version of Tetris, Dr. Mario remains my favorite NES puzzle game for the following reasons (for a quick introduction to the game, check out this video):

  1. The interesting gameplay mechanics combine piece-cascading and comboing along with horizontal and vertical piece elimination.
  2. Unlike Tetris, the game, while indefinite, is broken into stages that end as opposed to one indefinite marathon session.
  3. Its competitive multiplayer allows you to sabotage your opponent as you race to clear the screen.
  4. The soundtrack is killer.

This track is arguably the finest argument for point (4). Out of context, it might not seem that interesting, but within the game’s context, paired with the tense and addictive gameplay, looping as the levels and matches grow longer, this track and its charming breakdown brings on 8-bit music euphony about once every two minutes.

The whole game’s soundtrack is available here at Egg City Radio which apparently is the new site by the former curator of the epic, short-lived Post Punk Junk blog.