Koichi Sugiyama (1931-2021) was a prominent Japanese composer and conductor, best known for his work in the realm of video game music. He gained international recognition primarily for his compositions for the "Dragon Quest" series, developed by Square Enix. His music blended orchestral and traditional Japanese elements, creating iconic themes that resonated with players and contributed significantly to the gaming experience. Sugiyama's notable works include the soundtracks for "Dragon Quest" games starting from the original in 1986, through to the later installments. His compositions often featured rich orchestration and memorable melodies, which helped elevate video game music to an art form. In addition to his contributions to gaming, Sugiyama composed classical music and conducted various orchestras, showcasing his versatility as a musician. Sugiyama's impact on music extends beyond the gaming industry; he was instrumental in promoting the legitimacy of video game soundtracks. His work has influenced countless composers in the gaming and animation sectors, solidifying his legacy as a pioneering figure in video game music. Sugiyama's compositions continue to be celebrated through concerts and orchestral performances around the world.