Amid Evil Score: A Heretic-Inspired FPS That Revives Classic Magic
The first-person shooter (FPS) genre has seen countless evolutions over the decades, but few games manage to capture the raw, arcade-style magic of the '90s classics. Amid Evil, developed by Indefatigable and published by New Blood Interactive, is one such title—a love letter to the golden age of shooters, particularly drawing inspiration from Heretic and Hexen. But what truly sets Amid Evil apart is its hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, composed by Andrew Hulshult. The Amid Evil score doesn’t just accompany the game; it elevates it into a surreal, otherworldly experience.
A Nod to the Past, a Leap into the Future
Amid Evil wears its Heretic influences proudly. The game’s dark fantasy setting, magical weaponry, and labyrinthine levels evoke the same eerie atmosphere that made Heretic a cult classic. However, Amid Evil doesn’t merely imitate—it refines and expands upon its predecessors. The game introduces a unique arsenal of enchanted weapons, from the Celestial Claw to the Aeturnum, each with devastating alternate fire modes.
But while the gameplay is fast, brutal, and satisfying, the soundtrack is what truly immerses players in its twisted realms.
Andrew Hulshult’s Masterful Composition
Andrew Hulshult, known for his work on Dusk and Quake Champions, delivers a score that blends retro synthwave with orchestral grandeur. The music in Amid Evil is dynamic, shifting between haunting choral chants, pulsating electronic beats, and thunderous percussion. Each track is tailored to the game’s otherworldly environments, enhancing the sense of dread and wonder.
Tracks like The Black Labyrinth and Forgotten Gods feature deep, resonant choirs that echo the game’s dark fantasy themes. Meanwhile, Arcane Expanse employs ethereal synths that make players feel as though they’re traversing a realm beyond mortal comprehension. Hulshult’s ability to merge retro and modern elements creates a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
How the Score Enhances Gameplay
A great FPS soundtrack doesn’t just play in the background—it reacts to the player’s actions. Amid Evil’s music intensifies during combat, with pounding drums and distorted synths amplifying the chaos. When exploring, the score shifts to eerie, ambient tones, reinforcing the game’s sense of isolation and mystery.
This dynamic approach ensures that players remain engaged, whether they’re battling hordes of demons or solving cryptic puzzles. The soundtrack’s versatility mirrors Amid Evil’s design philosophy: a perfect blend of old-school challenge and modern polish.
Why Amid Evil Stands Out in Modern FPS
In an era dominated by military shooters and battle royales, Amid Evil dares to be different. It embraces the weird, the arcane, and the surreal—qualities that defined '90s shooters but are often absent today. The game’s score plays a crucial role in this, transporting players to a realm where magic is real and danger lurks in every shadow.
For fans of Heretic, Hexen, or classic FPS games in general, Amid Evil is a must-play. And for those who appreciate video game music as an art form, Andrew Hulshult’s soundtrack is worth experiencing on its own.
Conclusion
Amid Evil is more than just a retro throwback—it’s a testament to how classic FPS design can thrive in the modern era. Its Heretic-inspired gameplay, combined with a mesmerizing score, creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of dark fantasy shooters or a newcomer seeking something unique, Amid Evil delivers on every front.
Now, grab your enchanted axe, turn up the volume, and prepare to descend into madness. The gods of old await.
