Hey guys! Let's dive into the incredible world of game soundtracks and specifically, who took home the gold at The Game Awards 2016 for Best Score/Music. It was a seriously competitive year, and the nominees really showcased the power music has in shaping our gaming experiences. From epic orchestral arrangements to hauntingly beautiful melodies, the contenders for the Best Score/Music award at The Game Awards 2016 were all winners in their own right, demonstrating how vital a well-crafted soundtrack is to immersion and emotional connection in video games. The music in games isn't just background noise, folks; it's a character in itself, guiding our emotions, amplifying the tension, and creating unforgettable moments. When we talk about the best soundtracks of 2016, we're talking about pieces of art that elevate the entire gaming medium. The nominees represented a diverse range of genres and styles, proving that a fantastic score can come from anywhere and enhance any type of game, whether it's a sprawling open-world adventure, a tightly paced action game, or an intimate indie darling. The careful selection of music can transform a good game into a legendary one, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll. This is why the award for Best Score/Music is so significant; it recognizes the composers and sound designers who pour their talent into creating sonic landscapes that resonate with players on a deep level. The Game Awards 2016 certainly didn't disappoint in highlighting this crucial aspect of game development, setting a high bar for musical excellence.

The Nominees for Best Score/Music in 2016

Getting nominated for Best Score/Music at The Game Awards 2016 was a huge achievement in itself, considering the sheer volume of amazing games released that year. Each of these soundtracks brought something unique to the table, contributing significantly to the overall atmosphere and emotional impact of their respective titles. The competition was fierce, with composers pushing the boundaries of what was expected in video game music. We saw everything from sweeping, cinematic scores that made you feel like the hero of your own blockbuster movie, to intimate, folksy tunes that perfectly captured the spirit of indie gems. The nominees truly represented the pinnacle of musical achievement in gaming for 2016. Let's take a moment to appreciate the artists behind these sonic masterpieces. Their work often goes unnoticed by the casual player, but it's the backbone of the gaming experience, weaving a tapestry of sound that guides us through triumphs and tribulations. The careful selection and composition of each track are what elevate a game from merely interactive entertainment to a truly immersive art form. Think about your favorite gaming moments – chances are, a powerful piece of music was playing, amplifying the emotion and making that memory stick. That's the magic of a great soundtrack, and the nominees for Best Score/Music at The Game Awards 2016 embodied that magic. They didn't just score the game; they scored the experience, making us feel every explosion, every quiet moment of reflection, and every hard-fought victory. The diversity of the nominated soundtracks also speaks volumes about the evolving landscape of game music, proving that innovation and artistry thrive across all genres and platforms. These composers are true innovators, using music to tell stories, evoke feelings, and create worlds that we love to get lost in. Their dedication to their craft is evident in every note, and their contribution to the gaming world is immeasurable. The Game Awards 2016 was a fantastic platform to shine a spotlight on these incredible sonic achievements.

• Doom - Composed by Mick Gordon. This soundtrack was a brutal, heavy metal onslaught that perfectly matched the game's intense, demon-slaying action. It was raw, aggressive, and incredibly effective in getting the adrenaline pumping. Gordon’s work on Doom wasn't just music; it was a sonic weapon, designed to fuel the player's rage and enhance the visceral combat. The blend of industrial sounds, chugging guitar riffs, and pounding drums created an atmosphere of pure, unadulterated chaos that players craved. It was a bold departure from many traditional orchestral scores, proving that a heavy metal soundtrack could be both critically acclaimed and incredibly fitting for a AAA title. The sheer energy and aggression packed into each track made it impossible not to get swept up in the game's mayhem. It felt like the music itself was fighting alongside you, an auditory manifestation of the Doom Slayer's relentless fury. This score was a masterclass in using music to amplify gameplay, turning every encounter into a high-octane battle of wills. The innovation in its sound design, incorporating elements that felt almost primal, cemented its place as a standout in 2016. It was more than just background noise; it was a core component of the Doom experience, making every moment feel epic and dangerous.
• The Last Guardian - Composed by Takeshi Furukawa. This score offered a more emotional and cinematic experience, evoking a sense of wonder, melancholy, and companionship between the boy and his giant creature, Trico. The music beautifully captured the bond and the journey, shifting from gentle, heartwarming melodies to more dramatic and suspenseful pieces as the narrative unfolded. Furukawa's score was a testament to the power of orchestral music to convey complex emotions without words. It was a sweeping, evocative soundtrack that perfectly complemented the game's sense of scale and its touching narrative of friendship. The music swelled during moments of awe and discovery, and it became somber during periods of separation or danger, mirroring the player's emotional arc. It was a truly breathtaking score that added layers of depth and meaning to the player's experience. The delicate balance between gentle, soaring themes and more tense, driving passages allowed the player to fully connect with the characters and their perilous adventure. This soundtrack didn't just accompany the game; it was the emotional heartbeat of The Last Guardian, making the player feel every ounce of joy, fear, and longing experienced by the protagonists. Its success highlights how traditional orchestral scores can still profoundly impact modern gaming.
• Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition - Composed by Gareth Coker. While the original release was in 2015, the Definitive Edition brought this beautiful score back into the spotlight. Coker's work is known for its lush, orchestral arrangements that evoke a sense of magic, wonder, and poignant beauty. The music in Ori is deeply intertwined with the game's stunning visuals and emotional narrative, creating a truly captivating experience. It’s the kind of soundtrack that makes you feel like you’re exploring a vibrant, living world filled with both joy and sorrow. The melodies are incredibly memorable, soaring during moments of triumph and becoming tender and melancholic during sadder parts of the story. Gareth Coker has a gift for crafting music that feels both epic and intimate, drawing the player into the magical forest of Nibel. It’s a soundtrack that perfectly captures the essence of the game, enhancing every leap, every discovery, and every emotional beat. The music truly elevates the gameplay, making the player feel every bit of the emotional journey. It’s a masterpiece of atmospheric and thematic composition, proving that indie games can boast soundtracks on par with the biggest AAA titles. The Definitive Edition's recognition underscored the enduring quality of Coker's score, which resonated deeply with players and critics alike, solidifying its status as a modern classic in the realm of video game music.
• Persona 5 - Composed by Shoji Meguro. The jazz-infused, stylish soundtrack of Persona 5 was unlike anything else that year. Its upbeat tempos, catchy melodies, and sophisticated arrangements created an incredibly cool and energetic vibe that perfectly matched the game's unique aesthetic and themes of rebellion. The music was incredibly infectious, making players want to tap their feet and hum along even outside of the game. Shoji Meguro's genius lies in his ability to blend different genres, particularly jazz, with J-pop and rock elements, resulting in a sound that is both fresh and deeply engaging. The soundtrack became synonymous with the game's identity, enhancing the phantom thieves' stylish heists and everyday school life alike. It was a soundtrack that oozed charisma and confidence, making the player feel like the coolest person in the room. The catchy hooks and sophisticated arrangements made it stand out, offering a much-needed dose of jazzy flair in the gaming music scene. It was more than just background music; it was a statement, a crucial element that defined the Persona 5 experience and left a lasting impression. The distinctiveness of this score ensured it was a strong contender, offering a unique sonic palette that resonated with fans and critics who appreciated its bold artistic direction.
• The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Blood and Wine - Composed by Marcin Przybyłowicz and Mikolai Stroinski. This expansion brought a rich, Slavic-inspired soundtrack that perfectly captured the adventurous spirit and folklore of the new region. The music was full of vibrant orchestral arrangements, folk instruments, and soaring vocals that transported players to a world of knights, monsters, and political intrigue. It built upon the already acclaimed score of the base game, offering new themes that felt both familiar and fresh. The music here was incredibly immersive, enhancing the feeling of exploration and discovery in the new Toussaint region. It’s the kind of score that makes you want to raise a mug of ale and sing along. The folk melodies and stirring orchestral pieces blended seamlessly, creating a soundscape that was both epic and deeply rooted in tradition. This expansion's soundtrack proved that even a late-game addition could deliver musical excellence worthy of major awards. The way it integrated traditional instrumentation with grand orchestral swells was masterful, creating a sound that was both unique and universally appealing. It was a triumphant continuation of the Witcher's musical legacy, offering a rich tapestry of sound that amplified the emotional weight and adventurous scope of the Blood and Wine story. The score truly made players feel like they were part of a grand, unfolding saga, rich with history and song.

And the Winner Is... Doom!

When the envelope was opened and Doom was announced as the winner for Best Score/Music at The Game Awards 2016, it was a moment that celebrated a bold and aggressive approach to game audio. Mick Gordon's work on Doom wasn't just background music; it was a visceral, driving force that propelled players through the demonic hordes with an unmatched intensity. This soundtrack was a game-changer, proving that heavy metal and industrial soundscapes could not only fit perfectly within a AAA game but also elevate it to new heights of player engagement. The win for Doom signified a recognition of innovative sound design and composition that prioritized raw energy and adrenaline. It was a testament to how music can directly impact gameplay, making players feel more powerful, more immersed, and more connected to the on-screen action. The sheer aggression and precision of Gordon's compositions resonated with players who were looking for an equally intense experience. It was a score that demanded to be heard, that became an integral part of the player's strategy and their emotional response to the game. The victory was well-deserved, highlighting the creative risks taken by both the developers and the composer. It was a bold choice by the award committee, acknowledging that the best soundtracks aren't always the most conventionally beautiful but can also be the most impactful and electrifying. This win cemented Doom's legacy not just as a stellar reboot but as a title with one of the most memorable and effective soundtracks in recent gaming history. It pushed the boundaries of what players expected from a game's audio, proving that a heavy, driving score could be just as artistically significant and emotionally resonant as any orchestral masterpiece. The Game Awards 2016 truly honored a soundtrack that was as unapologetically badass as the game it accompanied, leaving an indelible mark on the gaming world and inspiring future composers to think outside the box.

Why Doom's Soundtrack Stood Out

Mick Gordon’s work on Doom was, frankly, revolutionary for 2016. The best soundtrack 2016 award it snagged at The Game Awards was a testament to its sheer audacity and effectiveness. Forget your typical orchestral swells; Gordon dove headfirst into a world of aggressive, industrial metal, infused with guttural growls and pounding percussion that perfectly mirrored the brutal, relentless action on screen. This wasn't just background noise, guys; it was an audio assault designed to get your blood pumping. The soundtrack was meticulously crafted to sync with the gameplay, creating a feedback loop of adrenaline and destruction. Each heavy riff, each blast beat, felt like it was directly influencing your combat prowess, making you feel like an unstoppable force against the demonic legions. It was a masterclass in using sound to enhance player immersion and amplify the visceral thrill of combat. The