Destiny’s Soundtrack: A Melodic Journey Through the Stars
Hey there, Guardian! What is it about Destiny 2 that keeps you hooked year after year? Is it the incredible gunplay that feels like a symphony of destruction? Or perhaps it’s the deep and intricate lore that draws you into its cosmic web? Maybe it’s a bit of both, or something entirely different. Whatever it is, there’s no denying the captivating allure of this unique blend of MMO and FPS.
When I first stepped into the world of Destiny, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. It was like being reborn in the plaid light of the Cosmodrome, with Peter Dinklage’s weary voice guiding me towards an epic battle. The game had grabbed hold of me, and I knew it was going to be a journey that would last for years.
I still remember the early days of the beta back in 2014. As a primarily PvP player, I was skeptical about the co-op nature of a “Halo-like” shooter. Could Bungie really create a space opera that stood on its own, separate from the iconic Halo franchise? Could it provide the same immersive experience that World of Warcraft players had raved about for generations? The answer was a resounding yes.
One of the elements that truly immersed me in this peculiar universe was the sound design. Every weapon had its own distinctive sound, etching itself into my memory. Whether it was the satisfying “ka-ching” of the Monte Carlo or the ominous hum of a Sweet Business spinning to life, the sound effects in Destiny proved that audio is just as important as visuals when it comes to setting the tone and mood of a game.
But it wasn’t just the sound effects that captivated me; it was the soundtrack that truly elevated Destiny to new heights. I’m not talking about that ill-fated Paul McCartney song that tarnished the legacy of the Beatles. No, I’m talking about the original Destiny OST, a 44-track masterpiece by Martin O’Donnell, the game’s lead composer.
O’Donnell’s score was a cosmic journey in itself. Unfettered by time constraints, he weaved magic into every note. The music became an integral part of Destiny’s identity, just like its sprawling landscapes and enigmatic narrative. It was a tragedy when O’Donnell was abruptly removed from Bungie before the game even launched, leaving behind a bitter legal battle.
But Destiny pressed on, weathering expansions and executive shuffles behind closed doors. O’Donnell’s departure left a void, but there were other talented veterans who stepped up to continue the legacy. One of these notable names was Michael Salvatori, a long-time collaborator of O’Donnell’s. Salvatori understood the essence of Destiny’s music and carried the torch with grace.
If you’ve ever listened to the original main menu music in Destiny 1, you’ll understand its power. That motif, that theme, evokes a sense of heroism every time you, as a Guardian, embark on a daring feat. This heroic theme resurfaces throughout the game, underscoring your battles against the Hive, Cabal, Fallen, Taken, and Vex. It evolves, adapts, and sometimes takes a backseat, but it’s always present, connecting every intricate piece of Destiny’s lore.
Salvatori and his team seamlessly continued O’Donnell’s legacy, building upon the foundations while adding their own touch. The Destiny 2 title track, “Inner Light,” is a testament to this evolution. It’s a powerful statement, combining heroism with a tinge of loss, reflecting the game’s themes and paying homage to fallen comrades. Another track, “Rise,” nearly replaces the original Guardian theme, becoming a reference to the past while forging its own identity.
However, the recent layoffs at Bungie have cast a shadow over Destiny’s musical legacy. Salvatori himself has been let go, leaving fans like me questioning the future of the game. How can we continue the fight when the very essence that once made Destiny so extraordinary is being discarded?
From its inception to the present day, Destiny’s soundtrack has been a triumph. It tells a story without words, weaving emotions into our gaming experience. It has been a loyal companion, guiding us through the chaos of the universe alongside our faithful ghost.
As Bungie bids farewell to yet another visionary, I find myself grappling with a decision. Do I still have the strength and desire to embark on this journey once more? What’s the point of raising my eyes as a Guardian if there’s no love for my ears?
But perhaps there is still hope. As gamers, we have the power to make our voices heard. We can demand that Bungie recognizes the importance of a captivating soundtrack and brings back the magic that once defined Destiny. Let’s rally together, Guardians, and show Bungie that we won’t let the music fade away. Our ears deserve an epic symphony to accompany our adventures through the stars.