Music is a key part of SSX. So key in fact, that EA have decided to dedicate an entire developer video to it. After the implausibly exciting “It’s Tricky” trailer, which highlighted big air and mad tricks, there was much speculation as to how the game would be approaching its musical score. Luckily for SSX fans, they get to hear answers directly from the mad professor in charge.
Music producer Freddy Ouano has been assigned with the unenviable task of putting together a soundtrack for the game, and from what he tells us, it seems to be split into three distinct categories. Mirroring the game’s design approach- “Race it” will consist of upbeat, high tempo tracks; “Trick it” will involve fun, dynamic sounds; while “Survive” aims to heighten the sense of danger. You know, just in case being chased by a deadly avalanche wasn’t scary enough. The music itself will be comprised of both emerging and established artists, with some specially composed tracks added in for good measure.
The other major feature announced was the ability to “remix” tracks on the fly. Previous SSX games have used a dynamic soundtrack to great effect – music fading out as you fly off a ramp for example – but EA’s newest title seems to be going for a more involved approach.
Now the music “stutters” as you grind, “pans” as you carve and “pulls out” as you catch air. Not only that, but the game also allows players to import and remix their own custom soundtracks using the very same mechanics.
Essentially, if you’ve ever had aspirations of being a snowboarding DJ, then this is perfect game for you.
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SSX is scheduled to release on February 17th for PS3 and Xbox 360. Powdery.