“Not only great on its own but influenced a ton of games”: Not Skyrim This Time But Another Bethesda Game Considered the GOAT Gaming Soundtrack by the Masses

The OST that rips and tears its way to the top.

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SUMMARY

  • A recent Reddit poll has revealed a surprising contender for the greatest video game soundtrack.
  • The OST's unique blend of elements has influenced countless other games.
  • Despite the soundtrack's success, the composer faced controversy over payment and creative control.
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When it comes to iconic video game soundtracks, Bethesda’s vast catalog often dominates the conversation. From the epic orchestral scores of The Elder Scrolls series, including the ever-popular Skyrim, to the haunting ambiance of the Fallout games, the publisher has a knack for delivering unforgettable auditory experiences.

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However, a recent post on the r/gaming subreddit has revealed that it’s not Skyrim that reigns supreme in the hearts of gamers, but rather the adrenaline-pumping, heavy metal-infused soundtrack of DOOM.

The Soundtrack That DOOM-inates Skyrim

An in-game screenshot showcases an icy landscape in Bethesda's The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
Skyrim has certainly stood the test of time. | Image Credit: Bethesda Game Studios

The original post, titled “What OST is just unbeatable?”, sparked a lively discussion among the community. While the original poster put forth Final Fantasy X as their personal pick, the top-voted comment quickly shifted the focus to Doom (2016).

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One user praised the game’s soundtrack for its unique ability to complement the gameplay perfectly.

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Fans raved about how the game’s pulse-pounding tracks, composed by the talented Mick Gordon, took the gameplay experience to new heights. The sheer intensity and energy of the soundtrack have become synonymous with the long-running franchise.

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The iconic “Rip & Tear” track, in particular, seems to have struck a chord with the gaming community, becoming a battle cry of sorts for demon-hunting enthusiasts.

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The impact of this Bethesda-published game’s soundtrack extends far beyond the game itself, influencing countless other titles and cementing its status as a trailblazer in video game music.

The Sour Note in the Symphony

A close-up image of Doom Slayer, the protagonist of the upcoming DOOM: The Dark Ages.
Gordon’s absence will be felt in The Dark Ages. | Image Credit: id Software

Despite the universal acclaim for the soundtrack, the story behind its creation is not without controversy.

Composer Mick Gordon, the celebrated mastermind behind the game’s unforgettable tracks, found himself embroiled in a dispute with his employers over payment and creative control:

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Fans expressed their disappointment and frustration over the situation, recognizing Gordon’s integral role in shaping the identity of the modern installments in the franchise.

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The fallout between Gordon and id Software has undoubtedly left many fans disappointed and concerned about the future of the long-running franchise.

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As the studio moves forward with the upcoming installment, The Dark Ages, the absence of Mick Gordon’s signature sound looms large. While the game’s trailer music may have failed to capture the same magic as its predecessors, fans remain hopeful that the series will find a way to recapture the adrenaline-fueled essence that made the 2016 reboot a standout title.

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Regardless of what the future holds, it’s clear that Doom (2016)‘s soundtrack has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected titles can produce the most memorable musical experiences.

What do you think about the soundtrack in discussion? Do you agree that it’s one of the greatest video game OSTs of all time, or do you have another favorite that you believe should take the crown? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!

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Written by Soumyajit Mukherjee

Articles Published: 101

Soumyajit (ign: LockDown) is a die-hard PC gamer with a passion for competitive FPS games, having played Rainbow Six Siege at a competitive level in the past. For nearly two years, he has turned his love for gaming and writing into a profession, delivering the latest gaming news and guides to his readers. And when he is not writing or dominating the lobby in Call of Duty or Valorant, you can find him in theaters watching the latest comic book films or binge-watching anime and thriller flicks!