It’s been another great year in gaming and that means we were also graced with some fantastic soundtracks. While many did their job and provided a bit of background music for your assorted adventures, here are five we believe went above and beyond just providing atmosphere.

Bayonetta 2

Composed by a group led by Masami Ueda, The Bayonetta 2 soundtrack consists of 183 songs and is spread across five discs. When the original soundtrack — which is only available in Japan at the moment — was revealed, Ueda noted that it would be more upbeat than the popular original and boy was he right. The fun vibe of the OST jived with the game’s chaotic gameplay and kept me humming the songs well after I was finished playing.

Highlights: “Moon River,” “Lumen Sage”

Little Big Planet 3

While the Little Big Universe is no stranger to sweet tunes, the soundtrack for Little Big Planet 3 is exceptional. In fact, the composer Winifred Phillips has already won her third Hollywood Music in Media Award for the Ziggurat theme in the title. The rest of the tracks are as charming as ever, especially the 50’s hits “Mister Sandman,” “Pink Shoelaces,” and “I Only Have Eyes For You.”

Highlights: “Ziggurat Theme,” “Mister Sandman”

Transistor

It would be hard to talk about the best video game music of the year without touching on Transistor. If you were a fan of Bastion’s music, you’ll be happy to find that Darren Korb has composed another masterpiece for Supergiant Games’ latest title. Ashley Barrett’s bluesy voice in particular adds a lot to the jazz-inspired album. If you’re looking for some moody beats to write or draw to, look no further.

Highlights: “We All Become,” “The Spine”

Far Cry 4

This soundtrack comes courtesy of well-respected composer (and former Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer) Cliff Martinez. While Far Cry 4 marks his first foray into the video game world, Martinez unique take on Himalayan music makes him seem like a seasoned pro. For the most part, the entire soundtrack is an interesting listening experience full of woodwinds, and exciting rhythms. All in all it’s a good mix of both soothing tracks and intense ones.

Highlights: “Trial by Fire,” “Secrets of the Goddess”

Child of Light

The music of Ubisoft’s Child of Light is by Canadian composer and singer-songwriter Beatrice Martin who you’ll probably know by her stage name CÅ“ur de pirate (“Pirate Heart”) in the music industry. Martin’s beautiful beats — which mostly utilize piano and strings — match the tone and theme of the game’s art style. Many are comparing the musical experience to that of Sony’s Journey, which was praised for its touching tunes.

Highlights: “Jupiter’s Lightning,” “Pilgrims on a Long Journey”

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These are just a few of the great soundtracks from 2014. A few honorable mentions: Destiny, Sunset Overdrive, Shadow of Mordor, and Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright. What were some of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below.