2024 Interview: DOOM & Heavy Metal Inspiration in Indie FPS Games

This extensive interview with Andrew Hulshult, a renowned video game composer, delves into his career, creative process, and personal preferences. From his early work on canceled projects like Duke Nukem 3D Reloaded and Rise of the Triad (2013) to his contributions to major titles such as DOOM Eternal DLC and Nightmare Reaper, Hulshult discusses his evolution as a musician and the challenges of working within the constraints of game development.

The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including:

• His career trajectory: Hulshult recounts his initial foray into game music, the unexpected surge in demand after leaving 3D Realms, and the continuous learning process involved in navigating the industry.
• Misconceptions about video game music: He addresses the common belief that game music is easy and underestimates the complexities of artistic collaboration and financial considerations.
• His unique approach to soundtracks: Hulshult explains his creative process, emphasizing the importance of respecting source material while infusing his personal style. He details his work on ROTT 2013, Bombshell, Nightmare Reaper, and Prodeus, highlighting the diverse musical styles he employs and his ability to adapt to different game aesthetics.
• The impact of personal experiences: The interview touches on the emotional toll of a family emergency during the composition of AMID EVIL DLC, showcasing the depth and vulnerability he brings to his work.
• His creative gear and setup: Hulshult provides a detailed overview of his current guitar setup, including his preferred guitars, pickups, strings, amps, and effects pedals, revealing his meticulous approach to sound design.
• His work on the Iron Lung film soundtrack: He shares insights into the differences between composing for film and games, his collaboration with Markiplier, and the impact of budget on his creative process.
• His chiptune album, Dusk 82: Hulshult discusses his experience with chiptune composition and expresses interest in revisiting other soundtracks in this style.
• His work on the DOOM Eternal DLC: He details his collaboration with id Software, the process of revisiting and remastering the IDKFA soundtrack, and the challenges and rewards of creating music for a beloved franchise.
• His musical influences and preferences: He shares his favorite bands and artists, both within and outside the video game industry, offering a glimpse into his musical tastes and inspirations.

The interview concludes with a discussion of his future aspirations, including potential projects and his thoughts on the evolution of his favorite bands. Hulshult’s candidness, passion, and insightful perspectives offer a fascinating look into the world of video game music composition.