Hey everyone!
This week, I want to shine a spotlight on the music and sound design of Wave Defense: Trappist, an area that is absolutely crucial to the atmosphere and overall experience of the game. To help tell this story, I’m thrilled to share insights from none other than Joel Mull, the world-renowned electronic musician who has written and produced the majority of the game’s music and sound.
A Creative Collaboration Between Two Sci-Fi Enthusiasts
In spring 2023, a creative partnership began between two friends and Sci-Fi enthusiasts—myself and Joel Mull. At the time, Wave Defense: Trappist was about six months into development. While the game already had a visual identity and some placeholder sound design, Joel saw an opportunity to elevate the project with a truly unique and personal soundscape.
The collaboration quickly grew from an idea into a shared vision. Inspired by our mutual love for Sci-Fi classics like Alien, Dune, and Blade Runner, we began to shape the narrative and atmosphere of the game together.
Exploring the Story and Themes
One of our earliest discussions revolved around the idea of why the Mech—a central figure in the game—was on this alien planet. This brainstorming led to an intriguing concept: a mysterious monk order from the 1100s, sent to exploit the planet’s resources and ship them back to Earth’s factories.
But the story didn’t stop there. The planet itself fights back, as its local creatures see the Mech as a threat to their environment and survival. This layered narrative creates a sense of conflict and introspection, blending action with deeper themes of exploitation and resistance.
Crafting the Soundscape
The shared vision for the game’s visual style and narrative became the foundation for its sound and music. Joel began experimenting with an incredible mix of sacred choirs, ambient textures, synths, and electronic elements to capture the game’s tone.
The goal was clear: to create a soundscape that balances mystique with a futuristic feel, immersing players in the Sci-Fi world of Wave Defense: Trappist. Every piece of music was crafted to complement the otherworldly environments, the tension of defending against alien waves, and the deeper narrative themes woven into the game.
A Natural and Dynamic Process
The collaboration between Joel and myself grew organically, through conversations and brainstorming sessions that flowed naturally. This dynamic exchange of ideas allowed us to create a cohesive vision for the game—a blend of striking visuals, Sci-Fi-inspired themes, and thought-provoking music.
The result is a soundscape that not only enhances the gameplay but also helps tell the story of the world you’re exploring. Whether you’re defending your base, upgrading your Mech, or exploring alien terrains, the music and sound design aim to keep you immersed and engaged at every step.
More to Come
I’m so excited to have Joel Mull’s incredible talent and creativity shaping the sound of Wave Defense: Trappist. The music and sound design are an integral part of the game, and I can’t wait to share more about it in future updates.
Thank you for being part of this journey, and stay tuned for more updates!
https://store.steampowered.com/app/3014930/Wave_Defense_Trappist/