More than ever, music is playing a larger role in online games. It used to be just background noise, but now forms an important part of the game itself. Modern online games are using music in a fun and captivating way to enhance the gaming experience. Whether it’s soundtracks that change as you play or unique partnerships with famous musicians, music is helping games connect with players on a whole new level.
Involving composers
Music in video games has changed a lot. The industry now brings in top composers, producing rich, orchestral soundtracks. Composers are also more involved in creating the game, making sure the music fits perfectly with the story and atmosphere. It’s not just big open-world games that are using music to captivate players – even online casino games are evolving their soundtracks to keep players hooked. Developers are realizing that the right music can make a big difference in how players feel while spinning and betting. So, if you’re looking for a new game to try, check out the complete list of new slots on AskGamblers, where music plays an important role in creating an atmosphere that keeps players entertained.
Online multiplayer games
- World of Warcraft
In World of Warcraft, music plays a huge role in bringing the vast world of Azeroth to life. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Jason Hayes and later expanded by several other composers, blends orchestral and folk music to capture the different cultures and regions of the game. Each area has its own unique theme, with music that fits the environment – whether it’s the peaceful melodies of Elwynn Forest or the epic battle themes in more intense zones. During raids and boss fights, the music becomes dramatic and fast-paced, pushing players to feel the urgency of the moment. The score also uses choirs and powerful instrumentals to heighten the excitement during key moments, like facing off against massed enemies.
- Elder Scrolls Online
In The Elder Scrolls Online, music is a big part of what makes the game feel so immersive. Composers Brad Derrick and Jeremy Soule created a soundtrack that fits the vast world of Tamriel perfectly. The music changes depending on where you are in the game, with each zone having its own unique theme. Whether you’re exploring peaceful forests or fighting in epic battles, the music helps bring the world to life. It even uses orchestral sounds and traditional instruments to capture the feel of the different cultures in the game, making every adventure even more exciting.
- Final Fantasy XIV
In Final Fantasy XIV, music is a key part of the game’s magic. Composed by Masayoshi Soken and others, the soundtrack mixes orchestral music with rock and folk styles to match the game’s epic story and beautiful world. Each area has its own theme, so you’ll hear different sounds depending on where you are in the game. During intense battles or big boss fights, the music gets dramatic, adding excitement and emotion. The music also helps tell the story, making the world of Eorzea feel even more alive and unforgettable.
- Star Wars: The Old Republic
In Star Wars: The Old Republic, music plays a huge role in bringing the galaxy to life. Composed by Mark Griskey and other musicians, the soundtrack captures the iconic sound of the Star Wars universe with grand orchestral pieces. Whether you’re exploring planets, engaging in epic space battles or experiencing key story moments, the music helps set the mood and makes everything feel more exciting. The powerful themes give you the feeling of being part of the Star Wars saga, adding to the drama and thrill of every mission and fight.
Notable open world adventures
- Ghost of Tsushima
Take the Ghost of Tsushima, for example. This action-packed game set in 13th-century Japan tells the story of a samurai fighting to save his home. To make sure the music felt authentic, developers teamed up with composers Ilan Eshkeri and Shigeru Umebayashi. They spent months crafting a score that blends traditional Japanese instruments such as the biwa (a Japanese lute) with sweeping orchestral sounds. The result is a soundtrack that perfectly matches the game’s stunning visuals and epic story, transporting players straight into the heart of feudal Japan.
- Red Dead Redemption 2
In Red Dead Redemption 2, music plays a huge part in bringing the world to life. The game’s music was created by talented composers Woody Jackson and Daniel Lanois, who worked together to capture the feel of the Wild West. The soundtrack changes with the mood of the game, from quiet moments with soft guitar tunes to intense scenes with dramatic music. The music helps players really feel the highs and lows of Arthur Morgan’s journey. It’s like the soundtrack is telling its own story, making the adventure even more exciting.
- Doom Eternal
In Doom Eternal, music is key to the game’s high-energy feel. Composed by Mick Gordon, the soundtrack is packed with heavy metal riffs that fuel the action. To make the music even more intense, a choir was used to create eerie, demonic sounds, adding a chilling layer to the game’s atmosphere. The music plays a huge role during boss battles and combat scenes, where the pounding beats and fast tempo match the chaos on screen. The soundtrack ramps up the tension and excitement, making every fight feel epic.
- God of War Ragnarök
In God of War Ragnarök, music is deeply woven into the story, adding emotional depth to Kratos’ journey. Composer Bear McCreary created a powerful soundtrack that blends traditional Nordic instruments with modern orchestral sounds. The music reflects the game’s themes of family, loss and destiny, using instruments like the Hardanger fiddle and the nyckelharpa to bring the world of the gods to life. During intense moments, the music shifts to a more dramatic and powerful tone, especially in combat and boss battles. McCreary also used a choir to enhance the epic feel of the game, creating a sense of grandeur and mythic struggle.
Listen on Spotify
- World of Warcraft
- Elder Scrolls Online
- Final Fantasy XIV
- Star Wars: The Old Republic
- Ghost of Tsushima
- Red Dead Redemption 2
- Doom Eternal
- God of War Ragnarök
What Fortnite is doing differently
Fortnite has revolutionized the way music and gaming combine by hosting massive in-game events featuring some of the world’s biggest artists. Players have experienced virtual concerts from superstars like Travis Scott, who drew over 12 million viewers during his Astronomical event, and Ariana Grande, whose Rift Tour blended music, stunning visuals and interactive gameplay. These events go beyond just music – they create fully immersive experiences, with custom-designed worlds and unique gameplay elements that tie into the artist’s style. Even DJs like Marshmello have taken the stage, turning Fortnite into a virtual festival ground.
In the future, we’ll probably see game developers and the music industry teaming up even more to make soundtracks that feel super interactive and unique. Imagine music that changes based on what you’re doing in the game – it’ll make every moment feel special! And as virtual reality gets bigger, music will play an even bigger role in making those worlds feel totally real. The future sounds pretty exciting, right?
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