Today, video games and TV series are expanding their fanbase not only through visuals or storytelling but also through their music. These soundtracks, which are instantly accessible on digital platforms, not only draw viewers or players into the moment but are also valued as independent works of art. Especially in recent years, video game and TV show soundtracks have found a prominent place on popular music charts.
Game soundtracks play a crucial role in creating atmosphere and connecting players to the story. For example, the Life is Strange series is one of the rare games where music is intricately woven into its narrative. With tracks from indie artists like Alt-J, Daughter, and Foals, the soundtrack enhances the melancholic vibe of the game, allowing players to deeply feel its essence. Songs like “Spanish Sahara” aren’t just tied to a specific scene but carry the soul of the entire game. Similarly, the music of The Last of Us series, composed by Gustavo Santaolalla, amplifies the emotional weight of the story. Santaolalla’s minimalist yet powerful compositions resonated not only with fans of the game but also with a broader music audience.
Arcane: A New Standard for TV Show Soundtracks
Released in 2021, Arcane became a phenomenon not only for its compelling story and visuals but also for its music. The track “Enemy,” a collaboration between Imagine Dragons and JID, perfectly captured the essence of the show and spent a long time on global music charts. However, Arcane’s success didn’t end there. Riot Games solidified its music achievements with the release of the Arcane Season 2 soundtrack album.
Released in 2024, the album features 22 tracks and presents fans with an extraordinary collection. The album includes contributions from famous artists like Mike Shinoda, Stefflon Don, and Twenty One Pilots, and the original pieces composed for the show deepen the emotional and thematic layers of the narrative. For example, tracks like “Heavy is the Crown,” “Renegade (We Never Run),” and “To Ashes and Blood” provide the perfect backing for action scenes, while emotional tracks like “Isha’s Song” reflect the inner worlds of the characters. Riot Games succeeded in treating music not just as an accompaniment but as an integral part of storytelling. Of course, fan favorites like “Ma Meilleure Ennemie” and “Paint the Town Blue” also deserve a mention.
The Impact of Digital Platforms
The rise of video game and TV show soundtracks would not be as prominent without the influence of digital platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Now, you can instantly search for a song you hear while watching a show and add it to your favorites. For instance, the soundtrack of Cyberpunk 2077 has created a cult following among the game’s fans. Contributions from artists like Run the Jewels, Grimes, and Refused perfectly reflected the dystopian universe of the game, and these tracks have transcended the game context to become hits in their own right.
What Does the Future Hold?
Video game and TV show music are no longer just supplementary elements. This realm has become a new platform for musical expression. Considering the importance companies like Riot Games place on music, it’s easy to predict that more TV shows and games will stand out with original soundtracks in the future.
In conclusion, the stories we experience on screen and in the gaming world become far more impactful with the help of music. This rising trend is opening new doors in the music industry while providing a unique experience for viewers and players alike.
