This thesis is intended to explore the development of video game music as a distinct musical genre. First, readers will find a basic summary of this document's content. Second, this paper will discuss the historical transformation of video game sound from its earlier years through an era, as proposed by the author, when game music became its own genre. Ultimately, the purpose of this thesis is to document the significant events, composers, companies, and music in the gaming industry as relevant to the genre of video game music during the author's proposed time period in which video game music truly established its own identity through its influential musical genres, technologically limited orchestration, and inspired compositional practices. The research shown in this thesis focuses on the development of video game music as a genre between the years 1985 and 1995. After the video game industry entered the home market, a decline in business resulted in its major economic collapse. Lessons learned from this resulted in greater business intelligence to rejuvenate the home gaming economy and artistry. This resulting artistic sophistication was aided by a new multifaceted philosophy in video game music creation. The previous market crash, and the technological limitations in the advancing analog gaming technologies of the time influenced the composition of the video game music between 1985 and 1995. Therefore, during the process of writing this document I have provided evidence to support an argument that the most significant developmental period for this genre was between these years. Today, the video game music genre thrives in a varied state of existence. This is seen through education, composition, concert performances, and of course, video games themselves. Different age groups and various cultures of video game patrons attest to the success and cultural significance of the video game music genre. This all is possible because the industry regained momentum after almost disappearing forever in 1983. Thanks to its currently growing and diversifying audience, the varied genre of video game music continues to technologically and compositionally advance while still reflecting back to its influences.