If I had to describe Black Desert Online’s score in one word, I would probably go with “lovely.” Generally, it’s a very lovely soundtrack. Maybe not the best I’ve ever heard, but it definitely has a plethora of pieces that are quite easy on the ears and make for relaxing gaming.
Today we’re going to saddle up on our newly tamed horse and ride across the plains in search of a bounty of musical riches. What will we find when we crest the horizon? Serenity and bliss, hopefully.
“Anti-Troll Fortification Theme”
Could there be a more awkward title for this track? No matter; I can look past it for this stirring, martial theme. It’s not a very complex piece, choosing to establish and then lean on the pressure of horns as a battle is about to be joined.
“Behr Theme”
The slow piano almost makes me feel like I should be weeping, save for the magical background that lifts this above melancholy to something almost inspirational. When I think about hearing this as the soundtrack to a journey through an MMO zone, I get chills. It’s one of those tracks that must do a great job enhancing the atmosphere of an area.
“Character Creation”
Is it just me, or does this piece sound like something lifted straight out of a Final Fantasy game? Maybe it’s that franchise’s penchant for working in a marching beat to telegraph preparation and planning. In any case, it works well for a character creation theme, hopefully getting the player amped about his or her entrance into this fantasy world.
“Village of Trents”
Another relaxing village tune, this one has two interesting elements to it. First is the measured, drawn-out violin notes that give it a Scandanavian feel. The second are the bongos that lend a more natural, homey percussion to the mix. All in all, it’s a theme that evokes nature and images of summer camp in my mind.
“Serendia Riding Themes”
How can you not love this track? The guitars just sell it with a western feel, while a heartfelt trumpet comes in to provide the main melody. I guess I’m just a sucker for well-done acoustic guitars, especially since we don’t seem to get as many of those in MMO scores.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSncp9tjYGM
“Discovery Theme”
Quietly, this track starts building a rather exciting theme by gradually adding in layer after layer until it’s practically bursting at the seams. That progression does lend itself well to a theme of discovery, with the anticipation leading into a grand payoff.
MMOs are meant to be heard as well as seen, and chances are that music ties your memories to these games more than you might realize. Every two weeks Jukebox Heroes listens through a game soundtrack and picks out the highlights to share and discuss. And if you like this column, then don’t miss the author’s MMO music podcast, Battle Bards!
