Video games are not only about graphics, gameplay, and story but also music. For example, God of War would not be the same without its iconic soundtrack. It’s worth listening to what the composer has to say about it. Bear McCreary, who composed the music for God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarök, recently shared his thoughts with VGC.
McCreary is well-known for working on dozens of soundtracks for movies and TV shows, such as The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and Outlander.
Composer’s Thoughts on God of War
McCreary mentioned to VGC that, while he would be open to returning to God of War in the future, for now, he feels that his work is done.
“We were just with the cast at the God of War 20th Anniversary Retrospective Gallery,” McCreary explained. “There were exhibits along the wall for all nine games, so it’s this pantheon. I’m looking around the room, and I’m seeing all the artists that have contributed.”
“It was quite moving to realize how many people had been involved. Coming into that room, I saw the God of War 2018 and God of War Ragnarok sheet music on the wall – my signed scores in frames that I had given to Santa Monica – and it really hit me that I got to contribute to this. Even with the God of War Valhalla DLC, there’s an ending cinematic to that, that really was important to me to score.”
“It brings a sort of closure to Kratos’ arc, so I feel like my contribution, starting with E3 2016 all the way through to Valhalla, feels complete. I feel complete. I feel like I told a story.” When VGC asked if McCreary would be interested in working on the Amazon series of God of War now in production, he replied, “If there’s anything else that needs music moving forward, they’ve got my number.” He laughed and added, “Everybody’s got my number, I’m here. I’m really proud of what I did.”
