Marble Zone, Sonic 1
https://youtu.be/TdrQp2hA6NI
The melody in this track is just fun, not to mention that the game gives you plenty of time to enjoy it because for a hedgehog that’s “gotta go fast,” this level moves so slow.
Anyway, the bass line is simple but constantly moving, and the background trills do a great job of adding a sense of wonder to the overall feel. You know, as well as you can add a sense of wonder to a 90’s sound chip.
Green Hill Zone, Sonic 1
https://youtu.be/y-78CMKME4o
If you’ve ever played a Sonic game in your entire life, you probably know this track. It’s gotten some upgrades over the years, but it’s still the loveable, classic beginning of all things Sonic video games. It’s cheerful, and there’s no real sense of urgency yet. You’re just discovering that things aren’t quite right, and then whoa! Boss time! Suddenly it’s not so happy-go-lucky and flowery, and you’re on your way to save the world.