From IGN · Tristan Ogilvie · · 3m
Mick Gordon on Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 Boss Fight
Mick Gordon explains how he created the climactic boss fight music for Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2.
In brief
Mick Gordon explains how he created the climactic boss fight music for Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2. Mick Gordon composed the 'Ascent of the Arkifane' track for Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2's boss fight, aiming for a big and bombastic sound that matches the game's scale. Originally reported by IGN.
Mick Gordon's Role
Mick Gordon, an Australian composer, helped create Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2's climactic boss fight music.
How He Got Involved
Gordon sent an email to Auroch Digital after the first Boltgun game, praising its unique blend of pixelated shooters and Warhammer 40K universe.
The Boss Fight Challenge
Auroch Digital wanted Gordon to create music for a massive boss battle that felt big and bombastic, unlike the first game.
No Pre-Existing Riffs
Gordon creates unique music for each project, avoiding pre-existing riffs to ensure the music fits the game's specific needs.
Using Gameplay Videos
Gordon uses capture footage from QA to understand the boss battle, then finds the perfect tempo for the music to match gameplay.
Tempo Matching
Gordon taps metronome tempos to set specific beats per minute for different levels, like 99, 138, and 216 beats per minute.
Collaboration Process
Gordon works closely with Auroch Digital, submitting ideas and getting feedback to shape the final track.
The Boss Battle Experience
Gordon aims to be the loudest, most obnoxious bastard in the room during the final boss battle to push the player's experience to its peak.
Limited Audience Reach
Only about 6% of players reach the boss battle, but Gordon loves the feeling of creating something unique for that small group.
Player Interaction
Gordon's music adapts to the player's actions, like health levels and gameplay, creating a cycle of interaction between music and player.
Doom Influence
Gordon's work on Doom Eternal inspired his approach to creating music that directly influences player rhythm and action.
Game Release
Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 is out now on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X|S, with a Nintendo Switch version coming later.
IGN Review
IGN gave Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 an 8 out of 10 rating, calling it 'an explosive sequel that packs a bloody punch.'
Gordon's Philosophy
Gordon believes games require player interaction to be meaningful, with music adapting to the player's actions in real time.
The Track Name
Gordon created the track 'Ascent of the Arkifane' for the boss fight, aiming for a big and bombastic sound.
At a glance
Mick Gordon composed the 'Ascent of the Arkifane' track for Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2's boss fight, aiming for a big and bombastic sound that matches the game's scale.
