When they're not developing popular shooters, Epic Games sure know how to put an emotional trailer together. With every "Gears of War" release, the company issues forth a trailer that incorporates a seemingly out-of-place, sad song played over crazy action. The first "Gears" trailer used the haunting "Mad World," as sung by Gary Jules. "Gears of War 2" video featured Devotchka's "How It Ends." Today, Epic has released the latest trailer for "Gears of War 3" and – big surprise – it features a real tear-jerker from Mazzy Star, "To Dust."
You can check out the video posted by Machinima this morning below.
So, now that you've taken some time to wipe away your tears, lighting a candle under your "MARCUS + DOM 4-EVER" shrine, let's take a deeper look at these "Gears" trailers. No, not just at the gameplay they're showing off – which looks excellent, of course – but at this sort of auteur method Epic utilizes time after time with sappy songs. It's super effective, dramatically, but has it become trite with overuse?
Ben Kuchera over at Ars Technica already did an excellent job today of taking a look at the notion that this is really nothing more than a gimmick. Still, it's an effective gimmick, and despite the thick layer of cheese, it seems like people consistently freak out every time one of these trailers are produced. Earlier today, Kuchera tweeted a Youtubedoubler.com video that paired the new trailer with Drowning Pool's goofy "Bodies." The result? Well, it looks like an effective videogame trailer.
Basically, it seems like any song can go over a muted "Gears" trailer, making you feel so emotional, you'll buy an extra copy of "Gears of War 3." One to actually play, and one to squeeze like an old teddy bear while you cry yourself to sleep after watching the trailer.
So, with credit to Mr. Kuchera, I thought I would throw a couple mash-ups out there. Let's start by keeping in-line with the traditional theme: mopey tunes that make you all sad about Lambent invasions and such. Below you'll find links to the handy site, Youtubedoubler.com. Each link will allow you to see the song suggestion played over the latest "Gears of War 3" trailer. (Note: be sure to mute the video on the left).
Bill Withers – Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone
Elliott Smith – Needle In The Hay
Not bad, huh? I think I might have a future in videogame trailer music direction. Now, those were three super sad songs, similar to what Epic has done in the past. So, what about other types of songs? Well, as a super secret bonus to you, the loyal reader, I have constructed the masterpiece linked below. Enjoy.
We would love to hear your own suggestions, so link them in the comments!