Before its massive success, Helldivers 2 composer almost abandoned orchestral scores

He recently revealed that before the release of Helldivers 2 soundtrack composer Wilbert Rouget considered moving on from orchestral music. The overwhelming response from the community to the soundtrack has, however, renewed his faith in orchestral music for games.

Roget said that he considered switching to other types of music before Helldivers 2 was released. "It seemed like players were tired of orchestral game scores. It's also absurdly difficult, expensive and time-consuming to produce. I wanted to try something new", he said.

Imagine my shock when I saw how enthusiastically players reacted to HD2's soundtrack! From music-reaction videos to covers (even an entire metal album?! ), I've never been more encouraged by listeners. I've never felt more encouraged by the listeners. For a traditionally-orchestral score, what I thought was impossible came true," he continued.

"I'm grateful to the @ArrowheadGS developers, players, and musicians for restoring my passion & hope for orchestral scoring. The award shows have their own unique tastes. But knowing that we've reached a large number of people is the best reward. Roget concluded.

Roget's response was in response to Helldivers 2's creative director Johan Pilestedt who said that he found it silly that the soundtrack had not been nominated for awards.

Roget's post prompted a new round of admirers to comment on his work on the soundtrack.

Roget is an experienced composer who has worked on Call of Duty: World War II, Mortal Kombats 1 & 11, Pacific Drive and Star Wars: Outlaws. He is also a TV Composer who has worked most recently on Netflix's Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance.

Roget shared his first concept sketch of the main theme of Helldivers 2, "A Cup of Liber-Tea" earlier this year. He noted at the time that it was more chaotic and aggressive than the final version. I think we are all glad that he persevered.