Songs to Boss By: Excellent Themes You've Probably Never Heard

What makes an excellent boss theme? If you ask me, all you really need is a sense of urgency. I mean you’re no longer taking on rank and file Waddle Dees or Koopa Troopas. No, you’re facing the big boys now and the music that accompanies the kerfuffle should be raucous, fast, and perhaps most of all, catchy. Here are a few excellent boss themes you may have (or may have not) missed.

 Banson’s Aria – Henry Hatsworth and the Puzzling Adventure
One of the DS sleeper hits had an amazing soundtrack, but if I had to pick a Sophie’s Choice of boss themes from this game it would have to be Banson’s Aria, probably because it’s just so different. There’s a bit of a missed direction when it starts; you figure it’s going to be just another forgettable orchestrated tune. Instead, there’s an operatic voice singing different musical terms (Cento, allegro, fortissimo etc.). Makes sense, considering the boss is an effeminate Fabio-esque pop star.

Master Porky’s Theme – Mother 3

Many people felt cheated around the time Super Smash Bros. Brawl was released, perhaps because they didn’t get their favorite character added to the roster. Me, I was more than happy with the roster, but felt slighted at the fact that New Pork City was represented in the game, but this song wasn’t. Master Porky’s theme would have been an excellent song to Brawl to, if only for having the catchiest drum beat since Blitzkrieg Bop. 

Philistine – No More Heroes Desperate Struggle

Not only a memorable theme, but a theme that actually played an significant part in the boss battle. Travis Touchdown fights Margaret Moonlight while she sings this little dilly to him. The lyrics are scathing, and probably cut deeper than her fancy little modified scythe rifles. Well, almost.

 King Dedede’s Theme – Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Yes, I know that you’ve probably heard this song many times before. But as far as I’m concerned, it’s a perfect yardstick for what a boss theme should be. Too often are boss themes wonky, slow paced, or just plain boring. None of those adjectives apply here. Not three seconds in and already you’re being bombarded with synth hits and a drum and bass line that would make any dubstep DJ blush. Dedede’s Theme lets you know what any boss theme should: “You’ve come this far, it’s almost over, but not until you’ve beaten me.”