Video game soundtracks have achieved a level of respectability that few would have predicted decades ago. From orchestral tributes at awards ceremonies to classical radio stations featuring game scores, music from games is increasingly recognized for its artistic merit. Yet, beyond these more polished compositions lies a vibrant, often disreputable, strain of music endemic to the medium: the high-energy, arcade-thrill-inspired soundtrack. These compositions, characterized by their hard-charging tempo and intense production, are less common now but remain a staple in genres like fighting and racing games.
A standout example of this energetic style can be found in the soundtrack for the solo-developed Spanish indie racing game, Super Woden: Rally Edge. While the game itself offers a focused arcade rally experience with a diverse collection of classic rally cars, its accompanying soundtrack is available separately on Steam and YouTube for those who appreciate its unique musical character.
The music for Super Woden: Rally Edge leans into its retro, cel-shaded PS1 aesthetic with a high-energy blend of EDM, metal, hip-hop, and jazz-funk. The synthetic MIDI sound of the tracks complements the game's vibrant low-poly graphics and functional menus perfectly. The soundtrack is a collaboration between two artists, DJ DeVito and DonutDroid, each bringing a distinct yet complementary style.
DJ DeVito provides the foundational energy with a suite of relentlessly upbeat techno, Eurodance, electro, and happy hardcore tracks. Songs like "Drive or Die" feature infectious basslines and retro synthesized orchestra stabs, while "Across the Universe" exemplifies DJ DeVito's driving four-to-the-floor techno style.
DonutDroid elevates the soundtrack with a remarkable ability to traverse multiple musical genres while maintaining a cohesive sound. "Burn Rubber Lovers" offers a punky breakbeat reminiscent of the Jet Set Radio soundtrack. "Funk Boy Slim" delivers immaculate funky big beat with prominent Hammond organ, horns, and jazz flute. "Disco Killer Music Lover" channels the sound of early Daft Punk, and "Gravel Fury" provides pure hair metal riffage. Tracks such as "Turbocharged Rage" and "Lost in Daytona" venture into complex jazz-rock territory, showcasing intricate time signatures and virtuosic solos.
While these artists may not be vying for the same accolades as composers of more traditional scores, their work on Super Woden: Rally Edge is a testament to their skill. They are preserving an authentic musical vernacular for video games—one that is looping, complex, brash, and brimming with witty pastiche and compositional energy.