Peter McConnell's first score for the online card game Hearthstone turned out perfectly. The only problem — it didn't work for the game. After watching a group of developers test the game, Peter realized the soundtrack needed to reflect a bar fight waiting to happen, not a whimsical fantasy world. Taking inspiration from ZZ Top, Jethro Tull and blues guitar, he fashioned a new score that belongs in a seedy pub. The tracks heavily feature acoustic guitar, all of which was played by Peter himself.
The pressure was on as Peter re-wrote the score; the game was projected to sell well. Hearthstone takes place in the World of Warcraft universe, which already boasts millions of players. But to call Hearthstone's sales meteoric would be a gross understatement. Released in March of 2014, the game had 20 million (more than the population of Romania) players by September. In January, rumors circulated that the game pushed 75 million. At this point, it's more of a phenomenon and less of a card game.
This is an episode for those who have ever played an instrument until their fingers bled. The soundtrack is playful and engaging, but it maintains an air of danger and edginess.
Playlist
All music from Hearthstone by Peter McConnell unless otherwise noted:
Pull Up a Chair
Playing With a Full Deck
Opening Cinematic, World of Warcraft "Warlords of Draenor", composer Neal Acree
Tricks of the Trade
Two Rogues, One Mark
(again) Two Rogues, One Mark
Tabletop Battles
Call to Arms, World of Warcraft, composer Jason Hayes
One Cast Chance
Pull Up a Chair
The Arena Awaits
Tricks of the Trade
Two Rogues, One Mark
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