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The Best Score Soundtrack for Video Games category at Grammy Awards is in its third year. But where’sSenua’s Saga? This year is more of the same with big franchises being the top nominees, with the exception of one game. But there’s one nominee on the list which probably could’ve made way for a more deserving title.
One of the nominees this year is Avatar: Frontiers Of Pandora. And while it received decent critical and fan reception, there’s an argument to be made that Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 is more deserving of this nomination.
Senua’s SagaIs Much Deeper ThanFrontiers of Pandorain Terms of Music
First,Senua’s Saga:Hellblade IIis a daring continuation of the groundbreaking elements that made its predecessor,Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, a standout. The original game was celebrated for its depiction of Senua’s mental illness and the use of Norse mythology to make its story.
1/2 Congratulations 67th#GRAMMYsBest Score Soundtrack for Video Games and Other Interactive Media nominees:@AvatarFrontiers–@pinartoprak; ‘God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla’ –@bearmccreary; ‘Marvel’s Spider-Man 2’ –@johnpaesano;pic.twitter.com/sKkVdoWH8d
InHellblade 2, these elements are amplified with an even deeper narrative focus and hauntingly atmospheric sound design. The fact that the game is breathtaking to look atis just a plus.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 Uses “Tens of thousands of audio assets” for Industry-First Binaural “Audio Journey”
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandoraearned praise for its music, which captures the awe-inspiring beauty of Pandora. But it feels like the game’s nomination speaks more to its association with an established franchise than to innovative musical composition.
Designed by Ubisoft, it feels familiar in many ways, often being described as an Avatar-themedFar Cryrather than as something entirely original. This isn’t necessarily detrimental, as the game does feature impressive technical work, including a soundtrack that resonates with the world’s visual spectacle.
But for those looking for an emotionally compelling score,Avatar’snomination may feel underwhelming compared toSenua’s Saga,which takes a much more introspective and poignant approach to storytelling through music.
The Music inHellblade 2Complements More Than Just The Game’s World
Hellblade IIarguably delivers an experience that is both viscerally haunting and artistically rich. Building on the critical success ofSenua’s Sacrifice,the game goes deeper into Senua’s battle with her inner demons and uses every aspect, including its music, to immerse players in her journey.
Hellblade 2: Game Pass Hit or Chart Flop For Xbox? New Senua’s Saga Sales Data Reveals All
The Grammy nomination process may favor games with widespread mainstream appeal, potentially leaving games likeSenua’s Sagaoverlooked due to its niche and often polarizing nature. While it is just speculation, it wouldn’t entirely be newwithin this area of pop culture.
I’m seeing a lot of random people complaining about X game not being nominated, or confused about how Y composer got the nod, or where did Z game come from— let’s discuss the grammy nominating process from a recording academy member in game audio.https://t.co/VnVgLq93Vv
The choice ofAvataralso raises concerns about the Grammy’s voting dynamics. According to insiders, the voting panel is primarily composed of industry professionals who may not specialize in video games, potentially skewing their choices toward bigger franchises over smaller, more artistic titles.
The result is that mainstream games, particularly those with cinematic scores and extensive brand recognition, may receive nominations over games that innovate within the gaming medium itself.Senua’s Saga,while celebrated within the gaming community, may not have had the same visibility among voters unfamiliar with its narrative and musical significance.
What do you think of the nominations this year? Let us know in the comments!
Daniel Royte
Gaming Writer
Articles Published :1370
As part of the FandomWire team, Daniel has followed the hero-shooter genre closely with a focus on titles like VALORANT, Apex Legends, and Marvel Rivals. You can also find him providing insight on the latest AAA titles from Elden Ring to GTA 6 and exploring the world of gacha games like Genshin Impact and Wuthering Waves. With more than 1,000 articles under his belt, you’ll need to look no further for a unique insight into every situation.If he’s not looking for the latest video game news, you’ll find him cheering on Ferrari in the race tracks of Formula 1 or at the theatres for the latest MCU releases.
