In the realm of video game soundtracks, some compositions just accompany gameplay, and then there are those that transcend mere background music, becoming an essential part of the gaming experience itself.
Ultros stands as a prime example of the latter, with its mesmerising soundtrack composed by visionary artists known as Ratvader and El Huervo.
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You wake up stranded, after seemingly crashing your ship on The Sarcophagus — a giant, space-drifting, cosmic uterus holding an ancient demonic being known as ULTROS. Trapped in the eternal loop of a black hole, you will have to explore The Sarcophagus and meet its inhabitants to understand the part you play.
As you venture into the depths of The Sarcophagus, you become surrounded by a sonic landscape unlike any other.
Ultros Isn’t Just A Visual Delight
I’ve spent entire afternoons listening to this game’s incredible soundtrack, delightfully accompanying my regular working day. The first track alone, titled Ouji Saint, is essentially a 13-minute symphony. Look out, Beethoven!
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Ratvader and El Huervo’s ethereal compositions serve as a haunting backdrop to the cosmic horrors and mysteries that await within the world of Ultros. From the moment the first notes reverberated through the void, I was transported into a realm where sound and space intertwine.
Through a blend of electronic beats, ambient tones, and haunting melodies, the composers capture the eerie power of The Sarcophagus, inviting players to immerse themselves fully in its atmospheric depths. There’s a wonderful mix of traditional Eastern Asian instrumental and psychedelic harmonies.
Each track serves as a window into the cosmic unknown, drawing players deeper into the mysteries that lie beyond. From pulsating rhythms to differing melodies, each musical motif heightens the player’s sense of urgency and peril as they navigate the cosmic labyrinth.
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Memerising Electronica
Particular tracks that stood out to me featured the game’s artist El Huervo (Niklas Åkerblad); Vainglory, Instant Gratification and Sentient Worm each opened my mind.
Ultimately, Ultros‘ soundtrack stands as a testament to the power of music to elevate the gaming experience to new heights.
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If you’ve got three hours, take a listen from start to finish. I’m looking forward to Ratvader’s next composition, an unannounced project by Dennaton Games (Hotline Miami).
You can check out the Ultros soundtrack on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and YouTube — or, of course, you can play the game and experience it how it was meant to be heard.
There’s a timed game trial available for PlayStation Plus subscribers, or you can pick it up on the PS Store and Steam for around $30.
