We’ve all got our favorite video game soundtracks, but what is an adaptive one? While they’ve been around in a sense for decades, its only now thanks to the power of modern technology that we can have truly adaptive soundtracks. Games like the Pokémon series had soundtracks that changed depending on which town you were visiting, or if you were entering a battle, but this was pre-programmed. Modern adaptive soundtracks change dynamically to fit your actions and the environment as you play. It’s revolutionized gaming, enabling total immersion and engagement. It’s like every moment is truly unique – and in some of those vast open world games, some moments actually might be. So, here they are are! Some of the most exciting adaptive soundtracks in modern video games.
DOOM (2016)
Remember DOOM? Well, DOOM (2016) brought the classic franchise into the modern era with a bang. We think its adaptive soundtrack played more than a small part. Composed by Mick Gordon, the music dynamically responds to the player’s actions, especially during combat. As you rip and tear your way through demons, you might be a little preoccupied to think abolut it, but the soundtrack seriously intensifies. You’ll notice heavy metal riffs and pulsating beats, only adding to the adrenaline fuelled demon slaying spree. DOOM has a brilliant adaptive approach that ensures that every encounter feels exhilarating and relentless, it’s brutal, in the best way.
Dragon Bonanza: Gold Hit
Dragon Bonanza: Gold Hit stands out with its atmospheric soundtrack that manages to sound trancey and old-world at the same time. The music adapts seamlessly to the gameplay, shifting from calming melodies when simply spinning the reels to more intense, pulse-pounding rhythms during high-stakes moments. This shift keeps you on your toes, anticipating the next change in tempo, to see if you’re going to strike a win. This game is available at plenty of online casinos, including Hard Rock. At the moment there are some pretty generous bonuses available, so before checking out this game it’s a good idea to go over this review of Hard Rock casino and see if you can snag a bonus that you can use on it.
Celeste
Celeste is a platformer that tells the story of a young woman climbing a mountain. It’s a slow burner, with a big focus on drawing you in and encouraging you to actually feel the emotions that she is, fully empathising with her. This is helped along by its adaptive soundtrack, helping to convey the depths of emotion in her enormous journey. The game’s adaptive music, composed by Lena Raine, changes in intensity and complexity as you progress. During tense platforming sections, the music ramps up, creating a sense of urgency and focus. In moments of introspection and calm (there are many), the soundtrack becomes more subdued, reflecting the protagonist’s more internal struggles and hopefully triumphs.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps features a seriously beautifully crafted adaptive soundtrack that enhances its emotional narrative and stunning visuals. The music, composed by Gareth Coker, changes so fluidly that you wouldn’t even notice it. It skips along, trundling into different time signatures and keys, playing gently to enhance but not interfere with the experience. As you make your way through lush forests, dark caves, and staggeringly beautiful otherworldly landscapes, the soundtrack adapts to mirror the beauty or the danger of each setting. This seamless integration of music and gameplay masterfully draws you deeper into the world of Ori. The journey feels as epic as any of the Lord of the Rings films, but also deeply personal. This one really is a work of art, and anyone with a love of creative soundtracks should make a beeline for it.
Hades
Supergiant Games’ Hades utilizes an adaptive soundtrack that perfectly matches its roguelike mechanics and Greek mythology-inspired setting. The music, composed by Darren Korb, shifts dynamically as you battle your way through the underworld. Each new chamber and encounter brings a change in tempo and intensity, with the soundtrack reflecting the increasing difficulty and stakes. This dynamic musical experience keeps you engaged and motivated, making each run feel unique and exhilarating.
