Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Defiance's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/jukebox-heroes-defiances-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/jukebox-heroes-defiances-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/jukebox-heroes-defiances-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Defiance's soundtrack
First of all, I wish my first name were a cool animal. Bear McCreary has that on me, so it seems unfair that he's also a geek icon for his work on several beloved TV series (Battlestar Galactica, Eureka, The Walking Dead). And now the guy is composing the soundtrack of one of this spring's hottest MMOs? Where did I go wrong with my life?

Before I go and change my name to Sugar Glider Olivetti, I guess it's only fair that I put a lid on my hurt ego to give Defiance's score a fair listen. McCreary was tapped to create the music for both the MMO and the TV series, giving the crossover project a unified sound.

"I had to make sure that players could hang out in one area for long stretches of time without getting bored by repetitive music," McCreary wrote on his blog. "As a result, melody plays less of a role throughout many of these cues. The real stars of this music are the texture and colors."

Music has texture and colors? If Bear says it, then it must be. Let's dive in!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Defiance's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Defiance's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfallbear-mccrearycomposercomposersdefiancefeaturedgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmmo-shootermusicopinionpvpsci-fishootersoundtracksoundtrackssyfythird-person-shootertpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvxboxTue, 14 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Who's your favorite MMO music composer?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/leaderboard-whos-your-favorite-mmo-music-composer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/leaderboard-whos-your-favorite-mmo-music-composer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/leaderboard-whos-your-favorite-mmo-music-composer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Knut Haugen is the best, and if you don't agree with me then YOU ARE WRONG!
I've got MMO music on the brain today, and with apologies to our dedicated music column, I'm going to devote this episode of Leaderboard to some of my favorite massively multiplayer composers. If you're not already aware, video game music has ceased to be cheesy, synth-dominated midi riffs and now sounds as good, if not better, than many of the orchestral marches composed for epic films and television.

With all that said, let's keep it simple. Who's your favorite MMO music composer? Vote after the cut!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Who's your favorite MMO music composer?

MassivelyLeaderboard: Who's your favorite MMO music composer? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-royalcomposersleaderboardmmo-musicmmo-soundtracksmusicone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollssoundtrackversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 13 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Wrath of the Lich King's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/jukebox-heroes-wrath-of-the-lich-kings-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/jukebox-heroes-wrath-of-the-lich-kings-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/jukebox-heroes-wrath-of-the-lich-kings-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Wrath of the Lich King's soundtrack
After my so-so review of The Burning Crusade's score a few months ago, I'm sure a few of you thought I was barking mad. World of Warcraft is well-known for great orchestra pieces, but I stick by saying that most of the brilliant stuff stayed the heck away from Outland. Fortunately, the sound quality got a lot better when we went up north for Wrath of the Lich King in 2008.

The score was composed and arranged by Russell Brower, Derek Duke, Matt Uelmen, Neal Acree, and Glenn Stafford. As to be expected by that name sandwich, the score features a lot of variety. While there are epic chants and the like that are to be expected from WoW, there's also a lonely, savage feel to the music that represents these far-off lands. There's also a lot of blowing wind that segues between tracks if you listen to the album straight through, and if that doesn't make you envision a snow-blasted landscape, I don't know what would.

The liner notes say that "this is the music of ice and despair, a dirge and a call to arms." I couldn't put it better myself. Let's dive into my picks for the best tracks from this score, shall we?

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Wrath of the Lich King's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Wrath of the Lich King's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcomposercomposersDerek-Dukefantasyfeaturedgame-musicGlenn-Staffordjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiMatt-Uelmenmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicNeal-AcreeopinionRussell-Browersoundtracksoundtrackswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingTue, 07 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What to expect from EVE Fanfest 2013 today: DUST 514 keynote and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/what-to-expect-from-eve-fanfest-2013-today-dust-514-keynote-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/what-to-expect-from-eve-fanfest-2013-today-dust-514-keynote-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/what-to-expect-from-eve-fanfest-2013-today-dust-514-keynote-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

What to expect from EVE Fanfest 2013 Day 1
EVE Online's colossal tenth anniversary Fanfest hasn't even officially begun, but the excitement from attendees is already practically palpable. The Reykjavik nightlife has been invaded by hundreds of foreigners yelling about internet spaceships as players from around the world reunite with their online comrades and meet corpmates for the first time. Over the course of the weekend, a record 1,400 EVE fans and hundreds more press and partners will flood into the Harpa building for non-stop news and festivities from EVE Online, DUST 514, and World of Darkness.

The talks and events start later today, but last night CCP kicked off the festivities with the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra delivering stunning renditions of tracks from the EVE Online soundtrack. Today, I'll be reporting back from key talks including the Retribution expansion roundup at 8 a.m. EDT (noon GMT), ship rebalancing at 9 a.m. EDT (1 p.m. GMT), lowsec PvP and crimewatch at noon EDT (4 p.m. GMT), and of course, the DUST 514 keynote speech at 2 p.m. EDT (6 p.m. GMT). I may also be able to join in on the roundtable discussion on wormholes and live events at 10 a.m. EDT (2 p.m. GMT) for an inside look at CCP's current thoughts. Check out the Fanfest timetable and let me know if there's something interesting you think I should try to squeeze in.

I'd expect the tone of these talks to be one of looking back at another successful year and the great player response to the Retribution expansion. We probably won't hear much of anything about the Odyssey expansion today, but I do expect some big DUST 514 news from the keynote. While many are probably hoping for word of a PC release, I'd be very surprised to see CCP actually do it. We'll most likely just get a release schedule for the PS3 launch and possibly footage of the game running on a PS4 devkit. I'm personally also hoping for more details on post-release updates such as the ability for DUST corps to own and manage their own territory and industrial supply chains.

Whether you're a die-hard fan of internet spaceships or just a gawker on the sidelines, EVE Fanfest is the EVE Online event of the year (and the key source of new DUST 514 and World of Darkness scoops!). Follow Massively's Brendan Drain as he reports back on this year's Fanfest starpower, scheming, and spoilers from exotic Reykjavik, Iceland.

MassivelyWhat to expect from EVE Fanfest 2013 today: DUST 514 keynote and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dustdust-514dust-514-keynoteeveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-onlineeve-online-fanfesteve-online-fanfest-2013eventevent-coveragefanfestharpaicelandicelandickeynotekeynote-speechlive-eventslowsecmassively-event-coveragemusicorchestraorchestralpvprekyjavikround-tableroundtableroundtable-discussionssandboxsci-fisymphonywormhole-explorationwormholesThu, 25 Apr 2013 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Battle music!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/jukebox-heroes-battle-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/jukebox-heroes-battle-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/jukebox-heroes-battle-music/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Battle music!
It's time once again to take a week off from looking at specific MMO soundtracks and open ourselves up to a theme instead. The topic? Battle music. Yeah, it can be some of the most obnoxious music in the game, especially after hearing it for the 3,000th time, but every once in a while I hear a piece that has some merit to it. These are the ones we want to examine today.

What makes for a good battle music track? I think it has to get you excited without being annoying or grating and not so loud or incredibly noticeable that you can't help but get tired of it sooner rather than later. It was actually pretty tricky to pull together six such tracks for this column, but I managed to do with with the help of Colonel Bugle up there. He's got the best MP3 collection around.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Battle music!

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Battle music! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoatlanticaatlantica-onlinebiowarecamelotclassic-mmocomposercomposersconsoleconsolesdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artseqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfree-to-playfuncomgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologynexonnexon-americanexon-koreaopinionpvprvrsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtrackssquaresquare-enixtactical-mmoturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 23 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Super Adventure Box's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/jukebox-heroes-super-adventure-boxs-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/jukebox-heroes-super-adventure-boxs-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/jukebox-heroes-super-adventure-boxs-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Super Adventure Box's soundtrack
OK, yeah, how could I not do this? I know that we at Massively have gone a little ga-ga over ArenaNet's stellar April Fools' Day prank-slash-massive update, but when I saw that the team released a half-hour of original score in addition to all of the pixelated monkey mayhem, I knew I had to review it.

Your enjoyment of Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box and its score will largely depend on your memories or feelings about old-school video games. For a kid who grew up on 8-bit and 16-bit games, the sound of SAB is pure nostalgia (even if it is original composition). I think it's also as catchy as cooties.

Composers Maclaine Diemer and Leif Chappelle put in a lot of effort to not just make a classic-sounding soundtrack here but specifically reference and pay homage to plenty of old-school hits. Hang with me as I highlight the best of Super Adventure Box, and I promise that next week we'll get back to serious business.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Super Adventure Box's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Super Adventure Box's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbattletoadsbuy-to-playcastlevaniachrono-triggercomposercomposersfantasyfeaturedfinal-fantasygame-musicguild-wars-2gw2jukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiLeif-ChappelleMaclaine-Diemermmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftnesopinionsabsilent-hillsoundtracksoundtrackssuper-adventure-boxthe-secret-worldzeldaTue, 16 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar composer releases several new music tracks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/wildstar-composer-releases-several-new-music-tracks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/wildstar-composer-releases-several-new-music-tracks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/wildstar-composer-releases-several-new-music-tracks/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

WildStar composer releases several new music tracks
If you're bummed because you haven't gotten one of the golden tickets to WildStar's beta yet, at least you can get an earful of what testers are experiencing. Composer Jeff Kurtenacker has posted 12 tunes from the upcoming MMO on SoundCloud for everyone to enjoy.

While some of the tracks have already been heard, quite a few are new. Among these are the Dominion theme, a couple of combat loops, and the Deradune zone theme.

Give the tracks a listen and let us know how you like the sound of WildStar is shaping up! While you're at it, check out Massively's interview with Kurtenacker regarding the creation and recording of this score.

MassivelyWildStar composer releases several new music tracks originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioscombat-musicdominionJeff-kurtenackermusicncsoftsandparksci-fantasysci-fiscoresoundtrackthemetrackswildstarwsTue, 16 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Final moments of MMOs
Maybe many of us would just rather remember MMOs as they were in life rather than at the moment of their demise. But I believe that how a game went out is incredibly fascinating for many reasons and worthy of examination.

It's in these final moments when an entire community has to say goodbye. It's in these moments that the developers mourn as well before pulling the plug. It's in these moments that history is being made one last time. And it goes without saying that it's in these moments that everyone curses the unfairness of it all.

Today we're going to watch the first half of 10 videos featuring MMOs in their final moments. It's here we'll see how weird, crazy, sad, and interesting things can get. Maybe you were part of one (or more) of these moments or are simply curious what it was like. Either way, it's the end of the world as we know it. And we feel fine.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 1

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 1 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-mmocomposercomposersdungeon-runnerseqoaeverquest-online-adventuresfeaturedfinal-momentsgalaxiesgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicmxoopinionsandboxsci-fishutdownsoesony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtracksstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiessunsetswgswgotabula-rasathe-matrix-onlineThu, 11 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Guild Wars Factions' soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/jukebox-heroes-guild-wars-factions-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/jukebox-heroes-guild-wars-factions-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/jukebox-heroes-guild-wars-factions-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Guild Wars Factions' soundtrack
East Asian-themed music in MMOs is something that I generally welcome. Even if the title isn't an Asian MMO, chances are that sooner or later developers like to work an Eastern zone, class, or city into the game -- and with that comes a specific sound. I'm by no means educated on what instruments are used in these tunes, but the result is so distinctive that you can't help but think of the region.

Guild Wars: Factions definitely drew upon the Orient for its theme, and composer Jeremy Soule returned to create a score that would paint a picture of Cantha. Unfortunately, I don't think he was up to the task. While technically sufficient, Factions' score is definitely lacking in the grandeur of Prophecies and the basic catchiness necessary to elevate a soundtrack out of the crowd. The best I can say is that none of the tracks is horrible to hear, but the album as a whole is actually a bit bland and forgettable.

I'm by no means besmirching Soule here. His previous and subsequent Guild Wars projects are heads and shoulders above this one, and everyone has an off day. Perhaps Asian music just wasn't his forte. In any case, I sifted vigorously to discover six tracks that best represent Cantha and its people.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Guild Wars Factions' soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Guild Wars Factions' soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcomposercomposersfactionsfantasyfeaturedgame-musicguild-warsguild-wars-factionsgwjeremy-soulejukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionsoundtracksoundtracksTue, 09 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[McCreary creates 'vast musical history' for Defiance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/mccreary-creates-vast-musical-history-for-defiance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/mccreary-creates-vast-musical-history-for-defiance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/mccreary-creates-vast-musical-history-for-defiance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Defiance album coverBear McCreary has posted a Defiance-related update on his official website. The composer, known for scoring Syfy's reimagined Battlestar Galactica television series as well as video games including Dark Void, says that Defiance was one of the biggest challenges of his career.

"I was tasked with writing a daunting amount of music, including two hours of energetic music for the videogame, and nearly eight hours of score for the thirteen-episode season," McCreary explains. "During all this, I constantly juggled a dozen or so character themes and followed intricately crafted story arcs." McCreary also contributed to Defiance world-building over the course of the project's five-year development history. His duties included designing distinct musical styles for each of the Votan races, producing "detailed treatises on the design, construction, and functionality of Votan instruments," and ultimately creating a "vast musical history" for the world of Defiance.

Finally, McCreary hints at more Defiance-related details to come via his ongoing blog. You can preview the Defiance soundtrack by clicking past the cut and watching the Theme from Defiance video.

Continue reading McCreary creates 'vast musical history' for Defiance

MassivelyMcCreary creates 'vast musical history' for Defiance originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfallbear-mccrearydefiancedefiance-soundtrackgame-musicgame-soundtracksmmo-shootermusicpvpsci-fishootersoundtrackssyfythird-person-shootertpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvxboxTue, 09 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: The Sims Online's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/jukebox-heroes-the-sims-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/jukebox-heroes-the-sims-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/jukebox-heroes-the-sims-onlines-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes The Sims Online's soundtrack
The recent SimCity is by far not the only botched product that EA's launched with the Sims name on it. The truth is that The Sims Online had a great potential and franchise behind it, but it let the ball drop, big-time. It was already visually obsolete by the time it launched, and that was the least of its worries.

Yet this fizzled MMO-slash-chat room had some pretty solid music backing it up. I've always been partial to the Sims series when it comes to OSTs because sometimes I just want to relax to happy, effervescent tunes. Series composer Jerry Martin produced the score to TSO in the same vein as his other projects, and it's still a delight to hear.

Unfortunately, the only way you can get a copy of the soundtrack today is to find a seller who's got an otherwise-useless copy of The Sims Online: Charter Edition lying around. Otherwise, it might just be easier to forge on in this column and get a taste of the Sims soundscape!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: The Sims Online's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: The Sims Online's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposerseaea-landelectronic-artsfeaturedgame-musicjerry-martinjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionsimlishsimlish-is-just-nonstop-swearingsimssoundtracksoundtracksthe-sims-onlinetsoTue, 02 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Listen to the entire Guild Wars 2 Super Adventure Box soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/listen-to-the-entire-guild-wars-2-super-adventure-box-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/listen-to-the-entire-guild-wars-2-super-adventure-box-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/listen-to-the-entire-guild-wars-2-super-adventure-box-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Listen to the entire Guild Wars 2 Super Adventure Box soundtrack
Enjoying your Super Adventure Box groove in Guild Wars 2? Then you've probably noticed the kicking 8-bit tunes as well. ArenaNet Composers Maclaine Diemer and Leif Chappelle put together 26 minutes of brand-new (and old-school) music tracks to power the super adventure, and you can listen to the whole shebang on SoundCloud.

"It's not easy reducing a lush, bombastic orchestral piece into just the four channels we have available to us for 8-bit music," Diemer said. "After the initial statement of the theme, a galloping rhythm and bass line with more of a classic Zelda feel kick in, followed by a new melody that bridges the gap between the Guild Wars 2 we know and love and the world of Super Adventure Box."

What's even better is that each of the tracks has composer notes attached to them, so if you're interested in how the duo came up with these catchy tunes and what inspired them, your curiosity shall soon be sated.

MassivelyListen to the entire Guild Wars 2 Super Adventure Box soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetapril-foolsapril-fools-2013april-fools-dayarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyfeaturedguild-wars-2gw2humorjokeLeif-ChappelleMaclaine-Diemermotomusicncsoftsabscorescreenshotscreenshotssoundtracksuper-adventure-boxTue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: RP in the key of C]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/storyboard-rp-in-the-key-of-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/storyboard-rp-in-the-key-of-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/storyboard-rp-in-the-key-of-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chase the high ground, where you'd rather be, where you might be found. Face all aglow to leave from here, to pack up and go.
Music is kind of a big deal. The right choice of music can change a scene from being happy to ominous, and intentionally mismatching the scene and the music can lead to hilarious results with minimal effort. In-game music makes use of this, naturally, and it's rare to find something stirring and peppy in the midst of a zone filled with volcanoes and demons. We rely on the background music to set a mood and underscore what's taking place at any given moment.

All that goes for roleplaying, too. But the odds are that the game music isn't going to provide the romantic music you need in the Undercity in World of Warcraft or the driving combat music you need on your bridge in Star Trek Online. Game music is meant for people who are playing; the music you need is closer to scoring a film.

So given the importance of music, let's talk about it just a little this week. After all, having the right tune playing can make a lasting impression, even if it's just on the people within earshot.

Continue reading Storyboard: RP in the key of C

MassivelyStoryboard: RP in the key of C originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acousticsadviceaudiofeaturedmusicopinionroleplayroleplayersroleplayingrpsoundssoundtrackstorystoryboardFri, 29 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Final Fantasy XI's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/jukebox-heroes-final-fantasy-xis-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/jukebox-heroes-final-fantasy-xis-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/jukebox-heroes-final-fantasy-xis-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Final Fantasy XI's soundtrack
Hey you! Want a good way to die a horrible, painful death? Enter into any geek domain and put down the music of the Final Fantasy series. Do it. I double-dog dare you. Even scrubs who couldn't identify a single other composer or notable video game soundtrack will leap to the defense of One-Winged Angel.

While I generally do like the Final Fantasy tunes, especially the earlier 8-bit era stuff and Final Fantasy IX, I haven't seen it as an infallible series in regard to its music. I think along the way Nobuo Uematsu's become this person who can Do No Wrong in the gaming community, which has stifled an honest look at both the highs and lows of his soundtracks.

I don't want to be all about hero worship or mindless bashing today; I want to examine a fairly good but not perfect soundtrack that represented Final Fantasy's first foray into MMOs. Along with Uematsu, Naoshi Mizuta and Kumi Tanioka shared composing duties on this project. There's some terrific stuff here that you'll listen to after the jump, but there are a lot more completely forgettable (and sometimes annoying!) tracks that have been shoehorned into FFXI's expansive game. So let's come down to earth and see what Final Fantasy XI has in store for us.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Final Fantasy XI's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Final Fantasy XI's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-themechocobocomposercomposersfantasyfeaturedffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-viifinal-fantasy-xigame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiKumi-Taniokammo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicNaoshi-MizutaNobuo-Uematsuone-winged-angelopinionsoundtracksoundtrackssquaresquare-enixTue, 26 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Embers of Caerus tours the green hell of Nupoanqa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/embers-of-caerus-tours-the-green-hell-of-nupoanqa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/embers-of-caerus-tours-the-green-hell-of-nupoanqa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/embers-of-caerus-tours-the-green-hell-of-nupoanqa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Embers of Caerus introduces the green hell of Nupoanga
Embers of Caerus just wrapped up a week focusing on the continent of Nupoanqa, and if you missed it, we have a few dev blogs along with a video so that you can cram before the test.

Nupoanqa is a region covered in the "green hell" of a jungle and has a trio of indigenous factions for players to discover: the Onakawa, the Senoka, and the Benghi. One of the dev blogs discusses the inspiration behind each of these factions, while the remaining two deliver short stories if you want to get into the lore.

While the following video eschews actual gameplay footage of Nupoanqa, it does contain four minutes of animated concept art set to the music and sounds of the area. Get a feel for Nupoanqa after the break -- it's quite relaxing.

[Thanks to Dave for the tip!]

Continue reading Embers of Caerus tours the green hell of Nupoanqa

MassivelyEmbers of Caerus tours the green hell of Nupoanqa originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diaryembers-of-caerusfactionsfantasyforsakenforsaken-studiosmusicNupoangasandboxsoundscapevideoMon, 25 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: The Matrix Online's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/jukebox-heroes-the-matrix-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/jukebox-heroes-the-matrix-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/jukebox-heroes-the-matrix-onlines-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes The Matrix Online's soundtrack
It's been almost three-and-a-half years since players were forced to unplug from The Matrix Online for the last time, but the memories and music remain. When I first was wowed by The Matrix back in 1999, the dark, action-packed score became an instant favorite of mine. It's a franchise in which the sound is critical to the feel of the films, and it makes sense that this would extend to the MMO.

The makers of MxO went to great lengths to retain the look, story, and audio of the films, which is why the trilogy's composer, Don Davis, was called in to create the music for the game. While the films are more dependent on an orchestra for the score, Davis went with a heavy synth sound for the MMO. It's still quite Matrix-y, however, and pretty dang cool to discover (or discover all over again).

Let's boot up this ancient laptop that I found and see if we can coax a few tunes out of it before Windows 98 shuts down on us for good.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: The Matrix Online's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: The Matrix Online's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersfeaturedgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimatrixmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicmxoopinionsoesoundtracksoundtracksthe-matrixthe-matrix-onlinewbTue, 19 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 composer Soule kickstarting symphony project]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/guild-wars-2-composer-soule-kickstarting-symphony-project/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/guild-wars-2-composer-soule-kickstarting-symphony-project/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/guild-wars-2-composer-soule-kickstarting-symphony-project/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2 composer Soule kickstarting symphony project
Here's an interesting Kickstarter wrinkle for you. Instead of funding the usual indie sandbox game, how would you feel about contributing to the first symphonic work from legendary game music maestro Jeremy Soule?

Soule is the prolific composer behind more than 60 commercial scores including memorable soundtracks for Guild Wars 2, World of Warcraft's Mists of Pandaria expansion, the Elder Scrolls series, and BioWare classics like Neverwinter Nights, Baldur's Gate, and Knights of the Old Republic.

Soule's next project is called Symphony No. 1 The Northerner (Opus 1), and according to the Kickstarter page, it marks his "first foray into the grand traditions of classical music. This symphonic work is planned to feature live players and singers in addition to the innovative technologies for which Jeremy has become known." Soule's project currently sits at about 75 percent of its $10,000 goal with 30 days to go.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 composer Soule kickstarting symphony project originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfundingculturejeremy-soulekickstartermmo-musicmusicsoule-symphonysoundtrackssymphonyThu, 14 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Music on the frontier: An interview with WildStar composer Jeff Kurtenacker]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/music-on-the-frontier-an-interview-with-wildstar-composer-jeff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/music-on-the-frontier-an-interview-with-wildstar-composer-jeff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/music-on-the-frontier-an-interview-with-wildstar-composer-jeff/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Music on the frontier A talk with WildStar's Jeff Kurtenacker
A great soundtrack has the ability to raise the mundane to memorable and the wonderful to epic. It's hard to imagine films like Star Wars or Back to the Future without their iconic scores or video games like Super Mario Bros. and Final Fantasy without their catchy tunes. So I'm always keen to hear the soundtracks of up-and-coming MMOs because they give me an indication of how much care is being given to the overall quality of the project.

I'm doubly excited for WildStar's score because it's being composed by Jeff Kurtenacker. Kurtenacker produced one of my all-time favorite MMO soundtracks, Pirates of the Burning Sea, which is a playful, exuberant romp through the nautical soundscape. And so far from what we've heard of WildStar's score, we can expect much of the same when we make planetfall on Nexus.

On one drizzly afternoon in a country that you've never heard of, Kurtenacker met with us in a small pub to talk about the joys of creating the music that will soon be infecting the brains of thousands (millions?) of gamers worldwide. Read on, space-man or space-woman, and be astounded!

Continue reading Music on the frontier: An interview with WildStar composer Jeff Kurtenacker

MassivelyMusic on the frontier: An interview with WildStar composer Jeff Kurtenacker originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Adam-Gubmancarbinecarbine-studiosCharley-LanussecomposercomposersDan-Savantfeaturedgame-musicinterviewinterviewsJeff-kurtenackerjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftNick-Baxteropinionpirates-of-the-burning-seasandparksci-fantasysci-fisoundtracksoundtrackswildstarwsTue, 12 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Soul of the Ultimate Nation's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/jukebox-heroes-soul-of-the-ultimate-nations-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/jukebox-heroes-soul-of-the-ultimate-nations-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/jukebox-heroes-soul-of-the-ultimate-nations-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Soul of the Ultimate Nation's soundtrack
Yes, you're seeing the header graphic correctly; Howard Shore is the powerhouse behind Soul of the Ultimate Nation's soundtrack. Yes, it's that Howard Shore -- The Lord of the Rings guy (not to mention all of his dozens of other film score projects dating back to 1979). How this smallish MMO was able to attract the likes of Mr. Shore I have no idea, but we're faced with the reality that the game did and this exists.

Other than doing a little double-take when I first found this out, I'm really cool with it. I love it when well-known movie composers dip into video games, such as when Harry Gregson-Williams branched out to do several of the Metal Gear Solid titles. Shore's works are really distinctive and give SUN a sound that's far more "professional" than many of the game's contemporaries.

That said, it's not the best score I've ever heard. It's quite noisy and pulls a little too much from the LotR films. Sometimes composers crib their own works (Harry Potter's music is John William's shameless ripoff of his own Home Alone soundtrack), and that's just how it goes. Let's take a look at an MMO scored by a Hollywood bigshot, shall we?

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Soul of the Ultimate Nation's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Soul of the Ultimate Nation's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musichoward-shorejukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringsmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicnhn-gamesopinionsoul-of-the-ultimate-nationsoundtracksoundtrackssunwebzenTue, 12 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlanetSide 2 rocks: An interview with composer Jeff Broadbent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/planetside-2-rocks-an-interview-with-composer-jeff-broadbent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/planetside-2-rocks-an-interview-with-composer-jeff-broadbent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/planetside-2-rocks-an-interview-with-composer-jeff-broadbent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

PlanetSide 2 rocks An interview with Composer Jeff Broadbent
In this post-Halo age, it's hard to imagine any sort of galactic ground battle happening without a stirring score at your back. So the challenge to the SOE audio team and Composer Jeff Broadbent was formidable: PlanetSide 2's soundtrack had to rock so hard that it would bring tears to the eyes of combat-hardened troops.

Whether or not the musicians and audio team succeeded is, of course, your personal opinion, but it's hard not to be impressed with the end result. Broadbent's worked on a variety of projects spanning video games, TV, and film, but PlanetSide 2 is his first crack at scoring an MMO.

We talked with Broadbent about his inspirations, experiences on the project, and his take on the end result. Read on and be enlightened!

Continue reading PlanetSide 2 rocks: An interview with composer Jeff Broadbent

MassivelyPlanetSide 2 rocks: An interview with composer Jeff Broadbent originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersfeaturedfpsgame-musicjeff-broadbentjohn-smedleyjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmmo-shootermmofpsmusicopinionplanetsideplanetside-2ps2rodney-gatessandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtracksSun, 10 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: WildStar's character creation music]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-exclusive-wildstars-character-creation-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-exclusive-wildstars-character-creation-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-exclusive-wildstars-character-creation-music/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Massively Exclusive WildStar's character creation music
Get ready to hear the theme that will be burned into your subconscious as you fine-tune your dozens of future WildStar avatars. Carbine Studios sent us a first look, er, listen to the character creation theme for the game.

The seven-minute tune is was composed by Jeff Kurtenacker (Pirates of the Burning Sea) and gives you a thematic feel for your first minutes in WildStar. It's a little regal, a little sparkly sci-fi, and all yours to hear after the jump!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: WildStar's character creation music

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: WildStar's character creation music originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioscharacter-creation-musiccharacter-creation-themeexclusiveJeff-kurtenackermusicncsoftsandparksci-fantasysci-fiscoresoundtrackthemevideowildstarwsWed, 06 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Spiral Knights' soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/jukebox-heroes-spiral-knights-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/jukebox-heroes-spiral-knights-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/jukebox-heroes-spiral-knights-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Spiral Knights' soundtrack
Wow, talk about a soundtrack that leaped up and bit me on the... earbuds! Sometimes I'm surprised how the smaller MMOs get treated to such lavish score releases while big-name games hoard their music to themselves, but in the case of Spiral Knights, I'm sincerely glad that this two-volume set was put out there for the world to enjoy. It truly is a kickin' project.

Spiral Knights was composed and arranged by Harry Mack (Doctor Who: Worlds in Time, Braid). Mack likes the smaller indie projects, so tackling this was one of his more high-profile works. For this album, Mack said that he was inspired by retro games: "It pulls a lot from the 'sound' of an earlier era, coupled in with more modern, easier-on-the-ears instruments."

The end result is a chirpy, peppy ride through a clockwork MMO, and trust me when I say that I had a hard time narrowing it down to just six picks. I hope that by the end of this column I'll have convinced you to listen to the rest of this terrific score.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Spiral Knights' soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Spiral Knights' soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicharry-mackjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionpromotionregistered-accountsregistered-playerssci-fantasysci-fisegasoundtracksoundtracksspiral-knightssteamthree-ringsthree-rings-designTue, 05 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Granado Espada's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/jukebox-heroes-granado-espadas-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/jukebox-heroes-granado-espadas-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/jukebox-heroes-granado-espadas-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Granado Espada's soundtrack
So here's an impossible task that lies before me right now: picking one musical genre that defines Granado Espada's score. I can't. It simply cannot be done. I've listened to a lot of soundtracks, my friends, and this game's score is literally all over the place. I don't know how or why the composers chose to toss opera, techno, electronic, international, jazz, and epic fantasy together like a bi-polar salad, but the end result is a nutritious blend of the crazy voices and catchy tunes.

Part of the... diversity on display here is the result of of a collaboration between several composers and one composer group: SoundTeMP, S.F.A., Junsung Kim, and Osamu Kubota. The game's sound department defended the decision to host a variety of composers in an interview, saying, "We took such an ambitious approach with the music in terms of different styles and the sheer quantity that we knew relying solely on a single composer would be inadequate."

Granado Espada has survived several transitions between companies and even a couple of name changes, but its soundtrack has endured just fine. It may be one of the most eccentric soundtracks you'll ever absorb, but at least it's never boring!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Granado Espada's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Granado Espada's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersfeaturedgame-musicgranado-espadajukeboxjukebox-heroesJunsung-Kimjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionOsamu-KubotaSFASoundTeMPsoundtracksoundtrackssword-of-the-new-worldTue, 26 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: A few of my favorite MMO soundtracks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/jukebox-heroes-a-few-of-my-favorite-mmo-soundtracks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/jukebox-heroes-a-few-of-my-favorite-mmo-soundtracks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/jukebox-heroes-a-few-of-my-favorite-mmo-soundtracks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes A few of my favorite soundtracks
I could hear some of you thinking in disbelief last week, "If Age of Conan isn't one of your top MMO scores, what is? And just how much am I not sending you a Christmas card this year, you loser?" You were kind enough to just think it and not say it, but I could hear it even so.

As we've mentioned countless times in this column, musical tastes are subjective. What's appealing to you may not be for me and vice-versa. What more is that musical tastes -- and favorites -- are always shifting around. I listen back to the jams that I enjoyed in the '90s and absolutely pity my younger self for such a deficiency in his musical diet.

So I thought that I'd take a week off our normal soundtrack reviews to bring to you my current top six favorite soundtracks. This list comes with the caveat that it's always subject to future changes as I continue to listen through more soundtracks for this column.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: A few of my favorite MMO soundtracks

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: A few of my favorite MMO soundtracks originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionage-of-conananetarenanetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchance-thomascomposercomposerseq2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicguild-warsguild-wars-2gwharry-mackhistoricalJeff-Kurtenackerjeremy-soulejukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionpiratespirates-of-the-burning-seaportalusportalus-gamespotbsriders-of-rohanrunes-of-magicsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisegasoesonysony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtracksspiral-knightsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteamswtortelonthree-ringsthree-rings-designturbineturbine-entertainmentvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarcraftwildstarwizardry101world-of-warcraftwowTue, 19 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Six reasons why Minstrels rule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-why-minstrels-rule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-why-minstrels-rule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-why-minstrels-rule/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Road to Mordor Six reasons why Minstrels rule
In the gaming world, you're either a bard person or you're not; there's no middle ground. For some, the concept of a character attacking with music and "inspiring" fellow adventurers with top 40 tunes is incredibly weird, even though armies used to employ musicians all the time for tempo and morale. For others, using music to help and hurt is a refreshing change of pace from fireballs and 70-pound impractical swords.

Over the five-plus year adventure that I've had in Lord of the Rings Online, I've rolled many-a Minstrel, although I've yet to make one my main. I've always loved the concept of the class, especially within Tolkien's IP, where music fills an important niche in the books. Music has power in Middle-earth, and the Minstrel is the one with the skills to defeat Sauron with mad lute skills.

As a tribute to this awesome class, here are six reasons why Minstrels rule -- and why you should try one out if you haven't already.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Six reasons why Minstrels rule

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Six reasons why Minstrels rule originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bagpipebagpipesbardbardsclassclassesf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrominstrelminstrelsmusicopinionroad-to-mordorsword-and-boardthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 16 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Hellgate London's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/jukebox-heroes-hellgate-londons-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/jukebox-heroes-hellgate-londons-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/jukebox-heroes-hellgate-londons-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Hellgate London's soundtrack
Hellgate London was a title that I was highly anticipating back in the day. It was a post-apocalyptic MMO action-RPG brought to us by the makers of Diablo, all with techno-warriors and jaunts through the London Underground. I was on board with that. Sure, we all know how it ended and will probably kvetch about it in the comments, but I feel comfortable in saying that the concept sounded pretty awesome.

Ironically, the sound is what remained with me long after my days in that game were through. It's no surprise, as the composing duo of Cris Velasco and Sascha Dikiciyan have tackled many other high-profile video game projects together, such as Prototype, Mass Effect 2, and Mass Effect 3.

This score is pretty easy to get a hold of these days (try Amazon). It's a solid pick that has a few great tracks, as long as you're willing to tolerate darker themes.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Hellgate London's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Hellgate London's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersCris-Velascof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicgothic-fantasyhanbitsofthellgatehellgate-londonHGLjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilondonmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionpost-apocalypticSascha-Dikiciyansoundtracksoundtrackst3funtokyoTue, 12 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online steels players for summer changes [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/eve-online-steels-players-for-summer-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/eve-online-steels-players-for-summer-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/eve-online-steels-players-for-summer-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online steels players for summer changes
When EVE Online's next expansion lands in summer 2013, CCP anticipates a surge of confusion and complaints over the "far-reaching consequences" that will occur when the studio reworks its ship requirements. To head off any possible negative feelings, the studio released an in-depth look as to how it's going to be changing the progression of ship captaincy and what will be required to jump into the next tier of spaceships.

In addition to this expansion preview, CCP posted another article concerning the improvement to corporation recruitment tools that will come even sooner with Retribution 1.1. The post goes over these improvements, such as an automatic welcome mail to new recruits, and invites players to test out the changes right now.

Finally, when Fanfest 2013 arrives in April, the event will be kicked off with the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra performing the EVE Online soundtrack. CCP posted a link for those who may be interested in obtaining tickets.

Update: The studio also confirmed that the convention will include an "unorthodox fight" with MMA fighter Gunnar Neslon and a series of speakers discussing real-world space technology, such as space elevators.

MassivelyEVE Online steels players for summer changes [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.1ccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinefanfestfanfest-2013internet-spaceshipsmusicretributionretribution-1.1sandboxsci-fiship-changessoundtrackspreadsheets-onlineThu, 07 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Age of Conan's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/jukebox-heroes-age-of-conans-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/jukebox-heroes-age-of-conans-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/jukebox-heroes-age-of-conans-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Age of Conan's soundtrack
I'm going to be honest with you: I've been putting off this particular column for months now. I've been dreading it, really. Because what I say next is probably going to turn off a lot of you who seem to worship this score like nothing else I've seen: I only kind of like Age of Conan's soundtrack. It's not really my favorite, nor in my top 10. And I know that this goes really against the feelings for this score that I've seen professed in Jukebox Heroes and elsewhere.

You know what? That's OK. Musical preferences are some of the most subjective things in the world, and we can't be expected to like everything, right? If Age of Conan's soundtrack gets people listening to more MMO (and even video game) scores, then that's a win for our niche-within-a-niche-within-a-niche hobby.

This score (and all of Age of Conan's subsequent music) was composed by Norwegian Knut Avenstroup Haugen. He won several awards for his work on the game, including the International Film Music Critics Association Award for Scoring Excellence. If you're interested in the man, Massively's Jef Reahard did an interview with him back in 2010 that makes for good reading. Otherwise, let's head onward and I'll share my personal favorites from the original game score!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Age of Conan's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Age of Conan's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedcomposercomposersconanf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgame-musichyboriajukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiknut-avenstroup-haugenknut-haugenmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionsoundtracksoundtracksTurbonegrounchainedTue, 05 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Star Trek Online's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/jukebox-heroes-star-trek-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/jukebox-heroes-star-trek-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/jukebox-heroes-star-trek-onlines-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Star Trek Online's score
As a franchise, Star Trek is replete with terrific (and iconic) music. Star Trek VI remains one of my all-time favorite film scores, and who can listen to the opening notes of The Next Generation without being able to whistle and/or hum the whole thing? Of course, Star Trek has a lot of bad and forgettable music as well, which is probably par for a combined work of hundreds upon hundreds of hours of television and cinema.

I had high hopes for Star Trek Online's score upon first logging into the game, and the opening theme certainly did not disappoint. Kevin Manthei (Champions Online, City of Villains) delivers a stirring title track that is also one of my favorites, although the remainder of the score is much more lopsided. Some of it is so generic and harsh on the ears that I ended up turning off the soundtrack when I played STO. That's a shame because there are several equally excellent tracks deserving of a listen.

So today we're going to the stars. I hope you packed your undies and a warm sweater.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Star Trek Online's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Star Trek Online's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecity-of-villainscomposercomposerscrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettikevin-mantheimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fisoundtracksoundtracksstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 29 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Eleven MMO soundtracks you can get for free]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/jukebox-heroes-eleven-mmo-soundtracks-you-can-get-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/jukebox-heroes-eleven-mmo-soundtracks-you-can-get-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/jukebox-heroes-eleven-mmo-soundtracks-you-can-get-for-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Eleven MMO soundtracks you can get for free
Collecting MMO soundtracks is a scattered, scavenger-like experience. Releasing video game soundtracks isn't exactly high up on studio and publisher to-do lists (although we're seeing more love from digital stores), so whether or not a title will get a music release is really a crapshoot. What does get released is never in the same place twice: Some game soundtracks are released as special editions only, some only as CDs, some as full MP3 album releases, some directly from the composer, some are buried on websites, and so on.

So I'm constantly looking everywhere trying to beef up my MMO soundtrack library, and as a result I've uncovered several scores that the studios are giving away for free. I'm all over free (legal) music, especially when it's in my area of interest!

If you've been looking to start an MMO soundtrack collection or are looking to add to what you have, I've put together a list of 11 MMO scores that you can get today free of charge. Sound good? It does to me!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Eleven MMO soundtracks you can get for free

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Eleven MMO soundtracks you can get for free originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoatlanticaatlantica-onlinebiowarebrowserbrowser-basedccpccp-gamesclassic-mmocomposercomposersddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artseveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-musicfree-to-playfuncomgagame-musicgiveawayglitchglobal agendahi-rezhi-rez-studiosinternet-spaceshipsjagexjagex-games-studiojukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilinuxlucasartsmacmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmmofpsmusicnexonnexon-americanexon-koreaopinionpcplaneshiftrsrunescaperyzomsandboxsci-fantasysci-fishootersoundtracksoundtracksspreadsheets-onlinespy-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortactical-mmothe-old-republicthird-person-shootertortpsturbineturbine-entertainmentultima-odysseyultima-xultima-x-odysseywinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedwinch-gate-property-lldwinchgateTue, 22 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Dark Age of Camelot's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/jukebox-heroes-dark-age-of-camelots-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/jukebox-heroes-dark-age-of-camelots-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/jukebox-heroes-dark-age-of-camelots-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Dark Age of Camelot's soundtrack
Dark Age of Camelot has a strange soundtrack history. The game came out with an official soundtrack in 2002 that is (a) wonderful, (b) absolutely worth buying, and (c) only marginally related to the actual in-game music. There are really terrific tracks on this, such as Breton Melody and The Rap, which I do wish I could share with you. Unfortunately, Universal Music Group is quite aggressive on keeping this CD's tracks off of sites like YouTube, so you will have to take my word for it that it's worth pursuing in your own time.

Then, of course, there's the actual score that's heard in the game, and that's what we'll be focusing on today. The original score and the first expansion was composed by Rik Schaffer of Womb Music. Schaffer worked with the team to come up with a multi-track format so that DAoC could weave together songs based on where you were and what was going on all around you. "It's a really neat system that provides a real sense of atmosphere as you are playing -- almost like a movie soundtrack," said Producer Matt Firor in a 2002 interview.

We've got a lot of musical ground to cover, so let's start moving!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Dark Age of Camelot's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Dark Age of Camelot's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecamelotclassic-mmocomposercomposersdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsfantasyfeaturedgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyopinionpvprik-schafferrvrsoundtracksoundtracksTue, 15 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Star Wars: The Old Republic's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/jukebox-heroes-star-wars-the-old-republics-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/jukebox-heroes-star-wars-the-old-republics-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/jukebox-heroes-star-wars-the-old-republics-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Star Wars The Old Republic's soundtrack
When an upcoming MMO announces its collector's edition, the very first thing I check for is whether it includes the soundtrack or not. I know, big surprise, right? But that often can be a crucial factor in my purchasing the product, especially if it doesn't look like the score's going to be released anywhere else.

Star Wars: The Old Republic's CE included the soundtrack... but only half of it. The other half was given away for free by BioWare in the days leading up to the game's release. So with my CE purchase and a little downloading know-how, I was able to piece together the SWTOR soundtrack to make a cohesive whole.

Making a Star Wars score on the scale of an MMO was a huge project, and BioWare enlisted a host of composers for it: Mark Griskey (Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II) Gordy Haab (Kinect Star Wars), Wilbert Roget (Monkey Island 2), Lennie Moore (Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary), Jessie Harlin (Star Wars: Republic Commando), Jared Emerson-Johnson (The Walking Dead), Peter McConnell (Psychonauts), and Steve Kirk (Farmville). It's a great soundtrack that fuses John Williams' classic strains with each composer's own take on the universe, and it definitely deserves to be covered.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Star Wars: The Old Republic's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Star Wars: The Old Republic's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecomposercomposerseaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicGordy-HaabJared-Emerson-JohnsonJessie-HarlinJohn-Williamsjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiLennie-MoorelucasartsMark-Griskeymmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionPeter-McConnellsci-fisoundtracksoundtracksstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicSteve-Kirkswtorthe-old-republictorWilbert-RogetTue, 08 Jan 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: The Burning Crusade's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/jukebox-heroes-the-burning-crusades-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/jukebox-heroes-the-burning-crusades-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/jukebox-heroes-the-burning-crusades-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes The Burning Crusade's soundtrack
World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade has always been a contentious expansion, with some remembering it quite fondly and others declaring it a blight upon the game. It was certainly a risk, with the relocation to a completely new world (sort of) and the addition of flying mounts. As far as this column is concerned, its greatest contribution to the franchise was to finally add the first new music to the game since it launched.

So how did the score fare? As always, that's a subjective question based on taste, but for me, I'm not that much of a fan. I've always felt it's one of the weaker World of Warcraft soundtracks -- not horrible, mind you, just weaker, with fewer standout selections and a lot more filler that I could just as well never hear again.

Derek Duke returned to help compose, along with Russell Brower and Matt Uelmen. The physical CDs of these soundtracks shipped with the collector's editions, although you can easily find it on iTunes these days. Unfortunately, the released soundtrack is incomplete, as we'll soon see.

So what were the best songs of The Burning Crusade? Let's find out!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: The Burning Crusade's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: The Burning Crusade's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcomposercomposersderek-dukefantasyfeaturedgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiMatt-Uelmenmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionRussell-Browersoundtracksoundtrackstbcthe-burning-crusadewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 01 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Christmas music]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/25/jukebox-heroes-christmas-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/25/jukebox-heroes-christmas-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/25/jukebox-heroes-christmas-music/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Christmas music
Merry Christmas and happy holidays from the staff at Jukebox Heroes! When it comes to the season, I have to admit that I'm a bit of a Christmas music junkie. Not nearly as bad as some I know, and I'm totally for a ban of hearing such music in public spaces before Thanksgiving and after New Year's Eve. I just love how it's so cheery and makes me feel warm in my tummy.

A couple of months ago when I realized that this column would fall on Christmas day, I entertained the notion of just featuring MMO Christmas music. That seemed a bit silly to me; there's no way that there could be more than a scarce handful of tunes, right?

It turns out that there's quite a bit, actually.

So whether you're celebrating, taking some time just to game, or bored out of your gourd, why not hit the jump and see how MMOs have contributed to the enormous library of Christmas music?

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Christmas music

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Christmas music originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playchristmaschristmas-2012christmas-musiccomposercomposersdotae-sportesportf2pfantasyfeaturedffff11ffxifiesta-onlinefinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xifree-to-playgame-musicgranado-espadaguild-wars-2gw2jukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettileagueleague-of-legendslolmaplestorymmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmobamusicncsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-koreaopinionphantasy-star-onlinepsoriotriot-gamessoundtracksoundtrackssquaresquare-enixsword-2sword-of-the-new-worldTue, 25 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Using MMOs to relax and unwind]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/the-soapbox-using-mmos-to-relax-and-unwind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/the-soapbox-using-mmos-to-relax-and-unwind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/the-soapbox-using-mmos-to-relax-and-unwind/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Soapbox title image
Every now and then, everyone needs to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to relax and unwind. The outside world can be loud, and the stresses of work and home life can add up quickly, so it helps to be able to switch off for a while. Some of us find relaxation in sitting down in front of the TV, others in zoning out to their favourite music, and an increasing number of people now wind down with computer games. I've personally found MMOs to be incredibly effective refuges from stress and anxiety, but until now I've never really thought about why that might be.

Any game can provide a few hours of escape from the daily grind, but there's something special about MMOs that seems to make them more comforting places to be. Certainly MMOs are manufactured to give a sense of solid progress as you play, a fairness that the unpredictability of real life often can't deliver, but there has to be more to it. Do the music and ambient sounds in EverQuest II's virtual forests and glens produce the same reaction as walking through a real life wood? Likewise, does EVE Online trick us into slowing down, and is spending time in a virtual world just more appealing than slogging along in the real one?

In this opinion piece, I look at some of the most relaxing areas and activities I've found in MMOs and try to figure out what makes them tick.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Using MMOs to relax and unwind

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Using MMOs to relax and unwind originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedasteroidasteroidsblizzardblizzard-entertainmentccpccp-gamesconaneqeq-2eq-iieq2eqiiescapismeveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedforestfree-to-playfriendsfuncomguildguildshyboriaminingmusicoakmystoakmyst-forestopinionorgrimmarrantrantsrelaxrelaxationrelaxingsandboxsci-fisoapboxsocialsocial-gamingsoesony-online-entertainmentstressstress-reductionstress-reliefthe-oakmyst-forestthe-soapboxtinabeansunwindwarcraftwind-downworld-of-warcraftwowzenTue, 18 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Anarchy Online's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/jukebox-heroes-anarchy-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/jukebox-heroes-anarchy-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/jukebox-heroes-anarchy-onlines-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Anarchy Online's soundtrack
In all of the MMOs I've played, Anarchy Online's music has stuck out at me like nothing else I've ever heard. I'm not saying that it's the best MMO score in the world or anything, but there's a really unique quality to its synth ambiance that hard-triggers my memories of the game.

The score was handled by a trio of composers: Morten Sørlie, Tor Linløkken, and Bjørn Arve Lagim. The team attempted to create an infinite score that used overlapping music samples which reacted to what was going on around you. The process is kind of fascinating, and you can read more about it on Gamasutra. However, the end result of traditional tracks are what we're going to be listening to today.

A large chunk of the Anarchy Online soundtrack is actually free to download. The first volume used to be available but has since been pulled. The second volume and the Shadowlands soundtrack are still up on Funcom's FTP server for those interested in listening to it. That said, let's dive into my favorite songs from all three!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Anarchy Online's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Anarchy Online's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoclassic-mmocomposercomposersf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionsci-fisoundtracksoundtracksTue, 18 Dec 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: My grown-up Solorius list]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/wings-over-atreia-my-grown-up-solorius-list/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/wings-over-atreia-my-grown-up-solorius-list/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/wings-over-atreia-my-grown-up-solorius-list/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia My grown up Solorius list
The strains of festive music wafting about Santum and Pandamonium. The glow of twinkling lights adorning the trees. The chatter of Shugos wearing red velvet robes and hats. Yes folks, it's that time of year again: It's Solorius in Aion! And you know what that means... OK, besides a festival filled with holiday-themed goodies. It means it's time for the annual Solorius wish list! And this year the venerable list is combined with another annual tradition: the Solorius medley.

You may notice that this season's list is actually more modest compared to those from years of yore. It's not that I don't want to see a plethora of goodies injected into the wonderful world of Aion. On the contrary! But we already know of many things coming our way in 4.0, and I don't want to distract the devs from getting them out to us quickly. And besides, those previous lists have been whittled down as wishes have been granted. Don't believe me? See for yourself. Then be sure to add anything else you want to see in Atreia to the list.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: My grown-up Solorius list

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: My grown-up Solorius list originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensioncharacter-slotsf2pfantasyFast-Track-serverfeaturedflight-zonesfree-to-playholiday-cheerhumormusicncsoftopinionPvPPvP-trophiesSoloriusSolorius-medlySolorius-songsSolorius-wish-listtruly-freewings-over-atreiawish-listMon, 17 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Reader requests]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/jukebox-heroes-reader-requests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/jukebox-heroes-reader-requests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/jukebox-heroes-reader-requests/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Reader requests
One of my favorite parts of doing this column is reading your comments every week. I've discovered that there are several other gamers who are passionate for this type of music and have plenty to say about these songs. There's a lot of memories that are triggered by these tunes as well, and I love hearing about them.

Unbeknownst to you but totally beknownst to me, I've been collecting comments regarding your favorite songs in the game's we've covered so far. My opinions on the best of every soundtrack isn't the be-all, end-all, after all. Sometimes you guys and gals show me a song that I overlooked or perhaps didn't appreciate the first time I heard it.

So what I've decided to do is turn your favorite songs into an occasional column, and this here is the first. Instead of focusing on just one MMO this week, we'll be looking at six additional tracks from titles we've discussed over the past few months. If you were gnashing your teeth that I overlooked an MMO classic, then you might just be in luck today!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Reader requests

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Reader requests originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionanimeblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcomposercomposerseqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegame-musicgameforgegameforge-berlinjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentrusty-heartssoesonysony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtrackstaboreawarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 11 Dec 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: RIFT's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/jukebox-heroes-rifts-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/jukebox-heroes-rifts-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/jukebox-heroes-rifts-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes RIFT's soundtrack
From where I'm sitting, there seems to be a popular conception (at least within the MMO community) that RIFT's score was a letdown. As a player of the game, I actually shared that view for quite some time, as none of the music really popped out at me while I was playing.

That all changed, however, when I sat down to listen to the full soundtrack. While it's not uniformly excellent (there are a lot of forgettable songs), several tunes arrested my attention and made me look at the score in a new light. So as we examine the soundtrack this week, I just ask that any of you out there who shared my previous outlook on the score give it another try. Keep an open mind, is all I'm asking.

RIFT was composed by industry veteran Inon Zur (check out our interview with him from a couple of months ago). The score was originally released with the collector's edition, although it's recently become available in iTunes and Amazon.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: RIFT's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: RIFT's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersconquestfantasyfeaturedgame-musicinon-zurjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsoundtracksoundtracksthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsTue, 04 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes City of Heroes' soundtrack
Really, how could it be anything else this week? By the first of December, a major MMO influence on my life will be gone for good. We will talk about it in the past tense with wistful tones, remembering the superheroic escapades and villainous schemes. It will be given a place of honor in many of our memories, and I truly believe that City of Heroes will echo throughout the industry and community for years to come.

One of those echoes is the game's score, which will endure, as does every MMO's soundtrack. When I first started playing City of Heroes in 2004, the music made a big impression on me. It painted a picture of the game's locale and atmosphere perhaps better than anything else. Heck, you could play the game with your eyes closed and know which zone you were in by the music cues. That's how integral the score was to the game.

So this is my final send-off to City of Heroes: a look at the highlight from its soundtrack from the launch through Freedom. Goodbye, City of Heroes... I'm going to really miss you. I won't miss the whine from the force field bubble, but I'll miss almost everything else.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-freedomcity-of-heroes-going-roguecity-of-villainscohcomposercomposerscovcoxf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomgame-musicgoing-roguehuxleyinvader-zimjason-gravesjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiKevin-Riepllineage-iimichael-henrymmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossoundtracksoundtracksstar-trek-onlinesunsunsetsunsettingsuperherosuperheroesTue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST