Deus Ex continues to be celebrated as a monumental achievement in the realm of video games, and its soundtrack plays a pivotal role in that acclaim. The emotional resonance of the game is intricately woven into its music, which has become iconic in its own right. When Eidos Montreal announced the return of Deus Ex in 2010, they chose to feature the unforgettable opening notes of the theme song, a decision that resonated deeply with fans and evoked a wave of nostalgia.
The Soundtrack’s Impact
The impact of the soundtrack is undeniable; it is as much a part of the gaming experience as the story and gameplay itself. For those unfamiliar, the full theme song is a masterpiece worth experiencing. The anticipation surrounding the franchise was palpable when the teaser dropped, and the music served as a powerful reminder of what made Deus Ex so special.
In the wake of the franchise’s resurgence, creative director Jeffrey Birns initially envisioned composer Brandon for the score of Deus Ex: The Fall. However, Eidos Montreal intervened, ultimately assigning the task to Mike McCann. Brandon expressed his disappointment, acknowledging that he could have crafted a score that complemented McCann’s style. Yet, he also recognized the unpredictable nature of the industry, remarking, “that’s just the way the cookie crumbled.”
While Brandon’s sentiments are understandable, it is important to note that McCann’s contributions to Human Revolution have also been met with acclaim. The soundtrack, while distinct from the original, maintains the essence of the Deus Ex universe. For those interested in exploring this further, the Human Revolution theme stands as a testament to McCann’s talent, with many fans particularly fond of the pulsating rhythm found in tracks like “Hung Hua Brothel.”
Despite the competitive landscape, Brandon remains gracious about the situation. He acknowledges that Szczepkowski, who offered him a role on Human Revolution, was merely extending a courtesy. “I’ve got a lot of respect for Steve, he’s really nice, really respectful,” Brandon stated. He humorously noted the disparity in their career trajectories, reflecting on how he had his moment in the spotlight while McCann was already an established name in television and gaming.
Brandon’s journey since his time with Deus Ex has seen him accumulate a wealth of experience, contributing to various high-profile projects. However, the current job market has proven challenging; he revealed that since his layoff from Frost Giant in 2025, he has submitted around 50 resumes, securing only a single interview. The struggle to find opportunities in the industry underscores the harsh realities many creatives face today.
