When playing video games, some focus on the plot and others on the graphics. However, for most players, the soundtrack is one of the most important features. Games like Perfect Dark and Super Mario Bros have become memorable for them, and producing powerful and well-composed pieces is now the norm. Halo, the sci-fi military video game from Bungie, has become infamous for both its gameplay and the spectacular soundtrack.
The Halo Series
The original soundtrack was composed for Halo: Combat Evolved by Martin O’Donnell and Michael Salvatori. An exclusive Xbox release, it was heavily promoted before its launch in 2001, providing players with a provocative and exciting campaign. It is a memorable and evocative piece of music, which became instantly recognisable, and helped win the VGX Award for Best PC Game. The series then expanded, becoming a platinum selling hit, and with each new game came a new compelling soundtrack.
The Iconic Soundtrack
The main Halo theme itself appears in every release and has become one of the most iconic music tracks of all time. It is not a complex melody, but has a superb and original composition, with hypnotic drums and a string build up. As a musical composition, it captures the very essence of the atmosphere of Halo perfectly, and remains eternally popular.
Halo – The Future
The Halo franchise is famous for its innovation and intensive storylines, and the musical scores always match the superb games. Halo 5 was released in 2014, and all its predecessors have contained captivating tracks which have immediately caught the imagination of players. They all differ greatly, from tranquil to imposing, evoking a wide range of emotions. With the Halo 6 release fast approaching, it will be interesting to see if the musical score will be just as inventive and memorable.