20 Songs About Games And Gaming

As a lifelong gamer and music enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of these two passions. There’s something magical about how music can capture the essence of gaming experiences, from the adrenaline rush of boss battles to the nostalgia of retro classics. Over the years, I’ve discovered a treasure trove of songs that pay homage to the world of games and gaming, each one striking a chord with the gamer in me.

In this playlist, I’m excited to share with you 20 of the most memorable songs about games and gaming that I’ve come across. These tracks span various genres and eras, much like the diverse landscape of gaming itself.

1. “Red Light Green Light” by Duke Dumont ft. Shaun Ross

“Red Light Green Light” by Duke Dumont, featuring Shaun Ross, is a dynamic track that draws inspiration from the classic children’s game of the same name. The song’s title and lyrics revolve around the concept of movement and pausing, akin to the game’s mechanics where players must stop and go on command. Musically, the track is characterized by its catchy beats and electronic soundscapes, creating an immersive experience that mirrors the tension and release found in the game. The collaboration between Duke Dumont and Shaun Ross adds a unique flair, combining vibrant production with engaging vocal performances.

2. “The Game of Love” by Santana ft. Michelle Branch

“The Game of Love” by Santana, featuring Michelle Branch, is a Grammy-winning song that delves into the metaphorical game of love. The lyrics, performed by Branch, explore the emotional highs and lows of a romantic relationship, likening it to a game where both participants experience moments of joy and pain. The chorus emphasizes the balance needed in relationships, with lines like “a little bit of this, a little bit of that” highlighting the mix of emotions involved. Musically, the song blends Santana’s signature guitar work with Branch’s heartfelt vocals, creating a memorable and soulful track. The song achieved commercial success, peaking at number five on the US Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Adult Contemporary chart.

3. “Play the Game” by Queen

“Play the Game” by Queen, written by Freddie Mercury, is a rock song from their 1980 album The Game. The song uses the metaphor of a game to discuss the complexities and simplicity of love. Mercury’s lyrics invite listeners to engage openly and freely with love, suggesting that while there may be rules, the essence of love is about letting emotions lead. The track features smooth harmonies and a blend of rock and pop elements, characteristic of Queen’s style during that era. The song’s upbeat tempo contrasts with its introspective lyrics, creating a dynamic that reflects the highs and lows of love. “Play the Game” was a hit in the UK and the US, showcasing Queen’s ability to blend deep lyrical content with catchy melodies.

4. “Game On” by Waka Flocka Flame ft. Good Charlotte

“Game On” by Waka Flocka Flame, featuring Good Charlotte, is an energetic anthem that draws parallels between the competitive nature of gaming and real-life challenges. The lyrics portray Waka Flocka Flame as a warrior, emphasizing themes of resilience, determination, and dominance. The repeated phrase “Game on” serves as a rallying cry, underscoring the readiness and resolve required to succeed. The song incorporates cultural references to gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, using them to highlight the parallels between virtual and real-world competition. The collaboration with Good Charlotte adds a rock edge to the track, blending hip-hop and rock elements to create a powerful and motivational song.

5. “Games People Play” by Joe South

“Games People Play” by Joe South is a classic song from 1968 that delves into the various psychological and social games people engage in. The lyrics criticize hypocrisy, insincerity, and the superficial interactions that often characterize human relationships. South uses the metaphor of games to highlight how people manipulate and deceive each other, often to their own detriment. Musically, the song features a blend of rock and soul, with a catchy melody and a powerful message that resonated with listeners, earning it a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Song.

6. “Love Is A Losing Game” by Amy Winehouse

“Love Is A Losing Game” by Amy Winehouse is a poignant ballad from her critically acclaimed album Back to Black. The song uses the metaphor of a game to describe the futile and often painful nature of love. Winehouse’s soulful voice conveys a deep sense of melancholy and resignation, as she reflects on a relationship that has brought more sorrow than joy. The lyrics, “Love is a losing game / One I wish I never played,” encapsulate the heartache and regret that come with failed romances. The song’s minimalist arrangement, featuring gentle guitar and piano, allows Winehouse’s emotive vocals to take center stage.

7. “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga

“Poker Face” by Lady Gaga, released in 2008, is a dance-pop anthem that cleverly intertwines themes of gambling and love. The song’s lyrics revolve around maintaining a ‘poker face’ to hide true emotions, much like a poker player conceals their hand. Gaga uses this metaphor to explore themes of sexual ambiguity and control, revealing in later interviews that the song reflects her experiences with bisexuality. The line “bluffin’ with my muffin” is a playful yet provocative innuendo, adding to the song’s layered meaning. Musically, “Poker Face” features a catchy hook, electronic beats, and Gaga’s distinctive vocal style, making it a global hit and a staple in her discography.

8. “The Name of the Game” by ABBA

“The Name of the Game” by ABBA, from their 1977 album ABBA: The Album, explores the complexities of romantic relationships through the metaphor of a game. The lyrics describe the uncertainty and excitement of falling in love, with the protagonist questioning the rules and dynamics of this emotional game. The song features ABBA’s signature harmonies and a blend of pop and rock elements, creating a rich musical tapestry. The chorus, “What’s the name of the game? / Does it mean anything to you?” captures the confusion and curiosity that often accompany new love. The song was a commercial success, showcasing ABBA’s ability to craft relatable and emotionally resonant music.

9. “Blackjack” by Ray Charles

“Blackjack” by Ray Charles is a blues song released in 1955 that explores the highs and lows of gambling, specifically focusing on the card game blackjack. The lyrics recount Charles’ personal experiences with the game, highlighting both his wins and losses. The song’s narrative captures the addictive nature of gambling and the emotional rollercoaster it entails. Musically, “Blackjack” features Charles’ signature soulful voice and piano playing, accompanied by a bluesy instrumental arrangement. The song is a testament to Charles’ ability to convey deep emotion through his music, making it a poignant addition to any playlist about games and gaming.

10. “The Crying Game” by Boy George

“The Crying Game” by Boy George is a cover of the 1964 song written by Geoff Stephens and originally performed by Dave Berry. Boy George’s version was released in 1992 and became widely known after being featured in the film of the same name. The song is a melancholic ballad that uses the metaphor of a game to describe the complexities and heartbreak of love. Boy George’s rendition, produced by the Pet Shop Boys, features atmospheric keyboards and a haunting vocal performance that captures the song’s emotional depth. The lyrics, “I know all there is to know about the crying game,” reflect the pain and inevitability of romantic sorrow.

11. “Pac-Man Fever” by Buckner & Garcia

“Pac-Man Fever” by Buckner & Garcia is a novelty song released in 1981 that capitalizes on the early 1980s video game craze. The song is a tribute to the classic arcade game Pac-Man, with lyrics that describe the excitement and obsession of playing the game. The track features sound effects from the game itself, adding an authentic touch to its playful and catchy melody. “Pac-Man Fever” became a commercial hit, reaching number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning gold certification. The song’s success led to an entire album dedicated to arcade games, making it a nostalgic anthem for gamers.

12. “Pinball Wizard” by The Who

“Pinball Wizard” by The Who is a rock song from their 1969 rock opera Tommy. Written by Pete Townshend, the song tells the story of a “deaf, dumb, and blind” boy who becomes a pinball champion. The lyrics describe the boy’s extraordinary pinball skills, which astonish everyone around him. The song was written to appeal to music critic Nik Cohn, a pinball enthusiast, and it played a significant role in the success of the Tommy album. Musically, “Pinball Wizard” features energetic guitar riffs, powerful vocals by Roger Daltrey, and a memorable melody. The song remains one of The Who’s most iconic tracks and has been covered by various artists, including Elton John.

13. “Video Games” by Lana Del Rey

“Video Games” by Lana Del Rey is a downtempo ballad from her 2012 album Born to Die. The song explores themes of unrequited love and emotional neglect, using the metaphor of video games to illustrate the protagonist’s feelings of being sidelined by her partner’s obsession with gaming. The lyrics, co-written by Del Rey and Justin Parker, depict a woman who tries to capture her boyfriend’s attention by doing things she believes he likes, only to find that he is more interested in his video games than in her. This dynamic creates a poignant contrast between her idealized view of their relationship and the reality of his indifference. The song’s melancholic tone is enhanced by its cinematic production, featuring orchestral strings and Del Rey’s haunting vocals. “Video Games” received critical acclaim and became Del Rey’s breakthrough hit, praised for its unique sound and emotional depth.

14. “Nintendo Game” by Alessia Cara

“Nintendo Game” by Alessia Cara is a playful yet introspective song from her 2018 album The Pains of Growing. The track uses the language and imagery of video gaming to describe the ups and downs of a romantic relationship. Cara likens love to a Nintendo game, where both partners engage in a competitive and often frustrating dynamic. Lyrics like “We could grow up, but it’s no fun that way, and so we treat love like it’s a Nintendo game” highlight the immaturity and lack of seriousness that can undermine a relationship. The song references popular games such as “Mario Kart” and “The Legend of Zelda,” adding a nostalgic and relatable layer for listeners familiar with these classics. The catchy tune and clever lyrics make “Nintendo Game” a standout track that resonates with the complexities of modern love.

15. “Let the Games Begin” by AJR

“Let the Games Begin” by AJR is an energetic indie pop song released as a single in 2015. The track features a distinctive bugle call and upbeat electronic instrumentation, setting the stage for a high-energy anthem. The song’s lyrics and title suggest a readiness to face challenges and compete, whether in sports, life, or metaphorical games. The chorus hook and “spokestep” bridge—where vocals are electronically manipulated in a dubstep style—add to the song’s dynamic and modern feel. “Let the Games Begin” captures the spirit of competition and the excitement of embarking on new ventures, making it a fitting addition to a playlist centered around games and gaming.

16. “Little Games” by The Yardbirds

“Little Games” by The Yardbirds is the title track from their 1967 album, marking a transitional period for the band with Jimmy Page as the sole guitarist. The song, produced by Mickie Most, reflects a shift towards a more commercial pop rock sound while retaining elements of the band’s blues roots. The lyrics of “Little Games” explore themes of manipulation and deceit, likening personal interactions to a game where one must navigate through various challenges and obstacles. Despite its catchy melody and playful tone, the song did not achieve significant commercial success at the time of its release. However, it remains a notable part of The Yardbirds’ discography, illustrating the band’s experimentation and evolution during the late 1960s.

17. “Simon Says” by Baby Rich ft. DDG

“Simon Says” by Baby Rich, featuring DDG, is a hip-hop track released in 2021 that uses the childhood game “Simon Says” as a metaphor for relationship dynamics. The song’s lyrics revolve around themes of trust, honesty, and control within romantic interactions. Baby Rich positions himself as “Simon,” setting the rules and expectations for his partner. He emphasizes the importance of straightforwardness and loyalty, warning against deceit and infidelity. The chorus repeatedly invokes “Simon said” to underscore the commands and expectations he has for his partner. The song combines catchy beats with a narrative about navigating the complexities of modern relationships, making it a fitting addition to a playlist focused on games and gaming.

18. “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” by Backstreet Boys

“Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” by Backstreet Boys is a pop ballad from their 1996 self-titled debut album. The song addresses the emotional turmoil caused by a partner’s indecisiveness and mixed signals. The lyrics express the pain and confusion of being led on, with the chorus pleading for the partner to stop playing games with the singer’s heart. The track features smooth harmonies and a memorable melody, characteristic of the boy band’s style. It became one of their early hits, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying their place in pop music history. The song’s relatable theme of romantic uncertainty and emotional games makes it a timeless addition to any playlist about games and gaming.

19. “Head Games” by Foreigner

“Head Games” by Foreigner is a rock song from their 1979 album of the same name. Written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones, the song explores the psychological battles and manipulations that occur in relationships. The lyrics describe the frustration and confusion of dealing with a partner who plays mind games, causing emotional distress. Musically, “Head Games” features powerful vocals, driving guitar riffs, and a catchy chorus, embodying the band’s signature rock sound. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its exploration of the mental and emotional challenges in relationships makes it a compelling addition to a playlist centered around games and gaming.

20. “Game Over” by Falling In Reverse

“Game Over” by Falling In Reverse is a high-energy rock song from their 2013 album Fashionably Late. The track uses video game imagery and metaphors to discuss life’s challenges and the feeling of being overwhelmed. The lyrics reference various gaming terms and scenarios, such as “extra life” and “level up,” to convey the struggles and setbacks faced by the protagonist. The song combines heavy guitar riffs, electronic elements, and Ronnie Radke’s dynamic vocals to create an intense and engaging listening experience. “Game Over” captures the spirit of resilience and determination, making it a fitting addition to a playlist about games and gaming.

Submit Your Song to This Playlist

Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.

Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.