Dungeons & Dragons
The Official Roleplaying Soundtrack (musical CD)
From: Midnight Syndicate
Reviewed by: Marc Shayed
Dungeons & Dragons is the new official roleplaying soundtrack from Midnight Syndicate. The fifth in their series of CDs of gothic soundscapes, “Dungeons & Dragons” was written expressly for the purpose to add a new dimension to the roleplaying experience. From the depths of the darkest cavern, to the shadows of the deepest forests, to the blood drenched and body littered fields of battle, “Dungeons & Dragons” provides a musical background to inspire players and game masters alike.
From the CD back cover:
“The heroes of Dungeons & Dragons never shrink from any challenge, be it man, monster, or magic. From the depths of the Abyss to the cloud-covered tops of the Barrier Peaks, these lush orchestral arrangements provide the perfect soundtrack for any quest. Adventure beckons you with every note…. Will you heed its call?”
As I mentioned in pervious reviews, I believe that gaming, if run to its full effect, can be a ‘complete’ experience and can indulge all of the senses. When I run RPGs, I (like many other GMs) try to set the mood… with lighting, props, and yes… with music. Music, if chosen carefully can help enhance any gaming experience and help your players feel the tension, to feel frightened, to get excited. The Midnight Syndicate has successfully made music that is well suited for gaming, especially in the case of this, their latest release.
Focusing on the action, suspense and the darker aspects of fantasy roleplaying, these tracks can either be cued as needed or (as I prefer) to simply let the CD play in the background to help enhance the mood of the game.
So… what does Marc really think?
Ever since I heard that this CD was in production I have been looking forward to hearing it. I wasn’t disappointed. Whether you prefer pre-made adventure “modules”, or you like to write your own adventures, players (and game masters alike) do trend to ‘feel’ more of the tension, fright, and excitement of the adventure while appropriate music is playing.
However, focusing on the “Doom & Gloom” aspects of the gaming does leave a few “gaps” in the CD as far as being a “complete” soundtrack goes. There is really only 1 track (City of Sails) that has a “triumphant” feel to it, there are no tracks that are appropriate for game time in a tavern (a standard in fantasy gaming), and there is no music for simply “traveling” on the long roads and paths that so many adventures begin with or end with. I do admit, though, that MOST fantasy adventure gaming is more focused on the conflict, battles, and intrigue, and not the characters “down time”.
Overall, the CD meets and exceeds the composer’s goals of being “The ultimate musical accompaniment to Dungeons & Dragons gaming.” I am happy to give this CD my highest recommendation.
Above all I suggest you judge for yourselves. Check out Midnight Syndicate and their new official roleplaying soundtrack Dungeons & Dragons at their website http://www.midnightsyndicate.com …and of course at all of your local game stores!
Dungeons & Dragons
From: Midnight Syndicate
Type: Musical CD - Official Roleplaying Soundtrack
Retail Price: $ 14.99 (US)
Number of Tracks: 23 (+1 unlisted track)
Play Time: aprox. 65 minuets
Email: Info@midnightsyndicate.com
Website: www.midnightsyndicate.com
Reviewed by: Marc Shayed
Review Editor
http://www.GamingReport.com
