Press release
Eidos-Montréal recently released a new in-depth video from the developers, which introduces us to the talents who worked on the soundtrack of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, and tells us what their source of inspiration was. He also discovered how the great pop and rock masterpieces of the 80s were integrated into an innovative game mechanic, the Huddle.
The soundtrack of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy includes three main musical components: an epic orchestral soundtrack, an incredible compilation of 80s classics, and a rock album made just for the game. Behind the scenes Steve Szczepkowski, Senior Audio Director of Eidos-Montréal, explains how the team of composers have combined these different elements to create a unique musical experience, which interacts directly with the game mechanics.
In the words of Steve Szczepkowski: “Music is an integral part of the Guardians universe and we wanted it to be part of the gameplay experience. The songs chosen are part of the very DNA of the game and we were able to use them in very different ways than usual. Whether it’s empowering the Guardians in combat or bringing Star-Lord’s favorite band to life, every single note is key to telling the story of this group of rock and roll misfits. ”
Steve also explains how the complex orchestral score, written by BAFTA-nominated composer Richard Jacques, contributes to the epic and cinematic atmosphere of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. Recorded at London’s famed Abbey Road Studios, the soundtrack features nearly six hours of original music that will set the stage for our heroes’ heroic and thrilling journey. The orchestral component has been designed to integrate perfectly with the other musical genres present in the game, to go from the most cinematic moments to the most famous pieces of modern music seamlessly.
The main factor in choosing songs that best accompany the Eidos-Montréal adventure of the Guardians, reveals Steve, was the fun. It’s an exceptional selection of rock and pop masterpieces, which will pop up at crucial moments in the game to transport players to the height of the 80s. There are songs from bands and artists such as Iron Maiden, KISS, New Kids On The Block, Rick Astley, Hot Chocolate and many more to be announced.
The Huddle mechanic allows you to use specific tracks to get upgrades during fights. Just turn on the Star-Lord walkman to listen to a hit from the 80s and give new energy to the Guardians in times of difficulty. Steve explains that some of the songs may seem out of place in the middle of a battle, but it is this contrast that makes the situation even more fun.
Finally, Steve unveiled the unexpected way he started a completely original rock band and made them an integral part of the Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy universe. Once informed that, in the game, Peter Quill chose his nickname in homage to his favorite band, Steve set to work giving the Star-Lords a voice. To this end, he has recorded an entire disc of original songs, celebrating the rebellious, dysfunctional and utterly rock nature of the Guardians.
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy will be available for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X | S, Xbox One, PC and streaming with GeForce NOW on October 26, 2021. Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy is also coming to Nintendo Switch in a cloud version in some regions, a starting from 26 October.
