Petri Alanko on the Art of Composing for Games: Music as an 'Emotional Vessel'

The Composer's Philosophy

For Petri Alanko, the composer behind the score for Control Resonant, a musical soundtrack serves as far more than mere background accompaniment. He views it as a vital storytelling component, an "emotional vessel" designed to elevate the player's experience. In a recent interview, Alanko highlighted his commitment to translating a developer's vision into an auditory format that resonates deeply with the audience.

«My duty is to represent the story in the most beautiful light possible, to help drill the ideas and the vision into the heads of those who experience the events,» Alanko explained. He draws a parallel between his work in game development and his experience in a band, where his primary goal is to support the soloist, allowing them to shine and display their talents in the most refined manner.

Balancing Narrative and Autonomy

While the score is deeply rooted in the game's narrative, Alanko insists that music must also maintain its own identity. He believes that if a soundtrack relies entirely on the context of the game to be appreciated, it fails to achieve its full potential. «It must be able to exist by itself, without the game and the story. Otherwise, it'd be just a pointless collection of noodling,» he noted. For him, it is a matter of respecting both the creative minds behind the game and the players who engage with it.

Creative Freedom and Emotional Honesty

Despite his dedication to the project, Alanko maintains a level of creative independence, noting that he does not create music simply to satisfy others. He argues that genuine engagement starts with his own enjoyment of the craft:

«If I don't like what I do, nobody else will... If something moves me, there's a good chance it might move someone else, too.»

Furthermore, Alanko is not afraid to take creative risks. He occasionally uses music to contrast with on-screen events, providing a "memento mori" effect. By introducing unexpected emotional shifts, he aims to remind players of the human condition and the fragility of life, adding a layer of depth that enhances the overall impact of the game's events.