In an exciting development for fans of the Dune franchise, acclaimed composer Knut Avenstroup Haugen is set to create the soundtrack for the upcoming game Dune: Awakening. While Funcom and Avenstroup Haugen have kept many details under wraps, they have so far confirmed that he composed the music for all the game’s trailers, including the much-celebrated “Survive Arrakis” trailer.
Meanwhile, Avenstroup Haugen’s official website lists Dune: Awakening as one of his projects under “video game—in progress.” He mentions the game along with the previous game soundtracks he is renowned for. Additionally, COOL Music Limited, the agency representing the composer, has placed Dune: Awakening at the top of his game credits list. These clues confidently lead us to conclude that Knut Avenstroup Haugen is indeed working on the complete soundtrack for the game.
Funcom and Knut Avenstroup Haugen have previously partnered on several acclaimed titles, including Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures and Conan Exiles. His work on Age of Conan – Hyborian Adventures earned him the International Film Music Critics Association Award for Scoring Excellence in 2009, in recognition of his skill in shaping the game’s musical identity. In 2011, Avenstroup Haugen won the Hollywood Music in Media Award for “Best Original Song – Video Game” for his composition of “Age of Conan – The Savage Coast of Turan,” solidifying his status as a leading talent in video game music. Even those unfamiliar with Funcom‘s games may recognize Haugen’s work from his acclaimed compositions for titles like Lords of the Fallen.
In interviews and on social media, Funcom previously revealed that Hans Zimmer’s Dune movie soundtrack will not be part of the game. While the movies and Zimmer’s amazing work inspire the developers, they are creating something unique specifically for the game. This decision allows Knut Avenstroup Haugen more creative freedom to craft an original score that aligns with the game’s unique vision.
What sets him apart is his ability to seamlessly blend orchestral elements with folk, world, and electronic influences. This unique fusion creates soundscapes that perfectly complement the atmosphere of the games he scores, promising a truly distinctive auditory journey for players in Dune: Awakening.
You might hear grand orchestrations in his music featuring lush strings, powerful brass sections, and majestic choirs, evoking a sense of epic adventure. At the same time, he incorporates folk melodies and instruments from various cultures, adding depth and authenticity to the worlds he helps to create.
Additionally, Avenstroup Haugen is skilled at using electronic elements to enhance his compositions, whether it’s subtle ambient textures or more prominent synthesized motifs, adding a modern touch to his sound.
Despite all these hints and acknowledgments, Funcom has yet to make an official announcement confirming Avenstroup Haugen as the game’s composer. We have contacted Knut Avenstroup Haugen and Funcom’s press team for comments but are still awaiting a reply.
Link: KnutAvenstroupHaugen.com – Knut Avenstroup Haugen’s Official Website
Link: COOLMusiclLtd.com – The Official Website of COOL Music Ltd
