I actually like this song from MGS3 the best because I used to watch a lot of old Bond movies and this just goes perfectly with the idea of a bond movie.  Such an awesome beginning to a game.

Next is one from Ico, the only song I actually noticed during my play through, but it was just such a perfect end.  Video contains spoilers so keep it tiny if you want to stay in the dark.

And last up to keep the variety going we have a battle theme.  This is from Persona 4, and it fits perfectly with a boss fight in my mind.

Gusty Gardens from SMG

Layton Theme from Professor Layton and the Curious Village

Roar of Departed Souls from Lost Odyssey

Heavenly Star from NMH

edit: whoops something went wrong hold on

edit 2: alright these are refusing to embed so here are the links, sorry

Aeris' Theme-Orchestral (FF VII)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UODCxAtyDo

The Oath-Orchestral (FF VIII)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joMKtX5OO4o&feature=related

Final Fantasy IX Boss Music

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2nF6qt49dE

@SHMUPGurus... your post was so full of win that it was epic beyond belief!

Soldier Blade is not only one of the best shmups ever, but it's got one of the most kick-ass soundtracks in history! And Contra 4 on DS is full of all kinds of win in the audio department.

Check out my videogame music playlist on Imeem.com in my sig.... I love that site, so much good stuff on there and the audio quality is better than YouTube also.

I think just about anything from Uematsu is a delight.

Haha, thanks! I'm a sucker for retro stuff (a.k.a. da good times), but I can find enjoyment in what's been done in the recent years as well... So, I'd say I know a bit what I'm talking about after gaming for so long! xD

Also, what's so good about the Contra IV soundtrack is that it's made by one of the best video game remixers out there (virt, a.k.a. Jake Kaufman)! He made Crystal Flash, a 22 minutes Super Metroid medley of epic proportions, and now he's making music for video games! Talk about inspiring, that's something I'd definitely like to do.

And wow @ the Ys songs. That's one series I have to play now! o_O Also, Top Gear! My god!

^^^ Hellz yeah... Ys kick so much ass... download Book I & II on the Virtual Console if/when you get a Wii!

And Top Gear is just too good for words... hell, when a band like Muse uses the main hook in one of their songs, you know you have a winner on your hands...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrROiUNwgCM

Aerith's Theme is so full of pure win :)

One of the best Game franchise Themes of all Time

I cried tears of joy at the end

speaking of the pc engine version of Ys book I & II