Where Are Those Old Game Music?
Long-standing melodies, menu music, and unforgettable theme songs in the gaming world hold a special place in our memories. However, many gamers now feel that this spirit has been lost in modern games. While silence and minimal sound design are increasingly prevalent today, the original melodies that embody the energy and spirit of older games seem to have faded into the background.
The Gaming World is Searching for Its Old Melodies
Even a simple example from a single player is enough to convey this shift: a massive amusement park is clearing, the noisy machines cease, and the game is plunged into silence. Instead of soft music or a familiar theme in the background, only the sounds of wind and birds are heard. While modern game design often favors tranquility, many gamers believe this silence weakens the game’s spirit.
Yet, in the past, games were etched in our memories through their music. Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2’s Hell March 2, Super Mario 64’s Dire Dire Docks, Guile’s stage music in Street Fighter 2… These tracks weren’t just background music; they were the fundamental elements that established the game’s atmosphere. Even today, these melodies, which give us goosebumps when heard, gave games their identity. Today, this impact has been lost in most projects, and many productions settle for tracks that resemble generic playlists.
While some major studios use similar pre-made music, filling menus with licensed pop songs has become more common. This choice by giants like EA and 2K has drawn criticism from many gamers. Of course, there are still indie productions and exceptions that produce memorable music, but the overall picture leaves players wondering, “Where are those old OSTs?”
While sound is often subdued to enhance the atmosphere in today’s gaming world, the absence of memorable melodies is felt. Silence can be precious at times, but a well-composed soundtrack reminds us why games are special when that silence fades. As games evolve, hopefully their music will return to its former glory.
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