How Ozzy Osbourne Helped Shape Video Game Music

Many of us have discovered our favorite music through video games. Whether it was the energetic soundtrack of Need for Speed Underground 2 or the intense guitar solos in Guitar Hero, games have introduced players to all kinds of music. For example, my own introduction to Ozzy Osbourne’s Crazy Train came while playing Guitar Hero at a family holiday, and this experience deepened my appreciation for heavy metal music.

Musicians like Ozzy Osbourne and bands like Black Sabbath are pioneers of heavy metal. Their influence reaches far beyond just concerts and records. Developers use heavy metal to power up emotional moments and make action sequences even more exciting in games. Think of fierce guitar riffs during a battle or when you pull off an impressive combo. These musical moments add fun and drama that make gaming memorable.

Ozzy Osbourne may not be directly involved in many video games, but his songs appear frequently. He’s a playable character in Guitar Hero World Tour and his music can be found in several Madden NFL games. Ozzy even contributed as a character in the game Brütal Legend. But his real impact is the inspiration he offers to game designers and musicians, helping them craft thrilling, energetic soundtracks.

Famous game creators like John Romero, who worked on Doom, have acknowledged that heavy metal—especially Ozzy’s music—helped define their games. Other games like Killer Instinct, Final Fantasy 10, and Metal Hellsinger also use heavy guitar and drums to create their unique style and atmosphere.

Even though Ozzy Osbourne’s direct involvement with games is limited, his music continues to shape the culture of video games. His legacy lives on in each new generation of players and developers who are inspired by the energy and excitement of metal music. Video games and heavy metal have become closely connected, and we have legends like Ozzy Osbourne to thank for making gaming soundtracks so powerful and unforgettable.

Original article and image: https://www.pcgamer.com/games/videogame-music-wouldnt-be-where-it-is-without-people-like-ozzy-osbourne/