I stood on a towering, alligator-themed rollercoaster, freshly power-washed to a blinding gleam. Below, the countryside stretched out, peaceful and…silent. It was a silence I hadn’t encountered much in gaming lately, a stark contrast to the bustling soundscapes of worlds past.
The quiet wasn’t by design. It was the aftermath of a two-hour livestream, the audio cut, leaving only distant birdsong. This new era of multi-screening and streaming complexities has subtly, yet profoundly, altered the landscape of video game music.
The 25th anniversary ofCommand & Conquer: Red Alert 2recently pulled me back into its world. The opening cinematic, delightfully absurd, immediately gives way to Frank Klepacki’s legendary “Hell March 2.” Even now, a quarter-century later, the music sends shivers down my spine.
It’s a reminder of a time when game soundtracks weren’t an afterthought. They were integral, carefully crafted to establish mood and anticipation. ConsiderClair Obscur: Expedition 33, a current favorite, whose soundtrack rivals its gameplay in quality.
This isn’t just nostalgia. It’s a recognition of a fading art form – the dedication to composing memorable music for every element, from menus to victory screens. Think of the iconic themes fromStreets of Rage 2,The Sims,GoldenEye 007, andSuper Mario 64. The list is endless.
So many titles, both massive and indie – likeLittle Rocket LabandTren– demonstrate this commitment. These soundtracks linger in your mind long after the game is over, becoming a part of the experience itself.
But too often, larger developers seem to be phoning it in. Generic background noise or cheaply licensed, forgettable pop songs are becoming the norm. It’s a disservice to players and a missed opportunity to create something truly special.
Silence can be golden, but a truly exceptional soundtrack, one that resonates in those quiet moments, is priceless. It’s a plea to developers: invest in the sound of your games. It matters more than you might think.
