Renowned composer Koji Kondo, the creative mind behind iconic Nintendo soundtracks for Mario, Zelda, and more, is set to be honored for his exceptional musical contributions. 

The Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences (AIAS) recently announced that Kondo will be inducted into the 27th Annual D.I.C.E Awards Hall of Fame on February 15.

Kondo, who joined Nintendo in 1984 as their first dedicated music composer, achieved icon status with his memorable compositions for The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Bros. franchises. The induction into the D.I.C.E Awards Hall of Fame, considered the video game industry’s equivalent of the Academy Awards, marks a distinguished honor for Kondo. This recognition places him alongside gaming legends like Hideo Kojima, Todd Howard, and fellow Nintendo pioneer Shigeru Miyamoto.

The live ceremony on February 15 will witness Kondo making history as the first video game music composer ever included in the D.I.C.E Awards Hall of Fame. This momentous occasion follows a growing trend of increased recognition for video game music (VGM) in various entertainment spheres. Last year, the Grammy Awards introduced a new category for Best Score Soundtrack For Video Games And Other Interactive Media, marking a historic acknowledgment of VGM.

Kondo’s induction is seen as a significant step forward for VGM soundtracks and composers, with his extensive catalog of iconic Nintendo music contributing to the industry’s success. As video games gain popularity, the role of music in their success becomes increasingly recognized. With the ongoing acclaim for the Super Mario Bros. franchise and The Legend of Zelda series, Koji Kondo remains a key figure in shaping the appeal of Nintendo classics and video game music as a whole.

This article recognizes the groundbreaking achievements of Koji Kondo, highlighting his influence on the gaming industry and the growing appreciation for video game music.