Dead Space 2
Dead Space 2 returns players to the terrifying world of Isaac Clarke, now trapped aboard the Sprawl, a massive space station overrun by grotesque Necromorphs and haunted by the trauma of his past. Blending brutal survival horror, psychological dread, cinematic action, and deep-space atmosphere, the game expands the nightmare with greater intensity, scale, and emotional stakes.
About the Score
Jason expanded the original game’s aleatoric orchestral horror into something more personal and psychological for Isaac Clarke. The original game was largely about the terror of the Ishimura; the sequel adds Isaac’s trauma, guilt, dementia, and emotional instability as major musical drivers.
He continued using 20th-century avant-garde orchestral techniques - dissonant clusters, extended strings, violent brass, aleatoric effects, and aggressive percussion - but contrasted the huge horror orchestra with a smaller, more intimate string ensemble. The score was performed by the Skywalker Symphony Orchestra and Quartet San Francisco, with the quartet helping create a more fragile, human sound around Isaac’s inner life.
A key piece written for string quartet was “Lacrimosa,” which incorporated the score's thematic material on a much more intimate, close setting. It also featured an extensive set of aleatoric effects, setting the small ensemble apart from the larger orchestral score.
“A huge achievement of immense maturity.”
Greatest Game Music
Watch & ListenVideos & interviews
Dead Space 2 Original Soundtrack4 Tracks
PressWhat critics said
“Hauntingly beautiful.”
YourClassical - Best Video Game Soundtracks of 2011
“A terrifyingly good listen.”
Game Music Online