After that the tape medium died and so too did the concept of free audio tracks. CD became the medium of choice and you were more likely to see special editions containing the in-game music sold on a limited edition separate disc or given away only with pre-orders rather than the unique offerings from the 8 bit days. This has continued into today where games from the likes of EA come loaded with huge compilations of ready made tunes from recognised artists.This feels far too corporate to me as labels try to push their up and comings or games companies try to gloss over a poor game with exlusive songs that you will only ever hear whilst shooting up an urban metropolis or racing down an autobahn.

Don’t get me wrong, games such as Guitar Hero and Rock Band make excellent use of licensed track that aren’t just in the background, they ARE the game. But where have the risk takers gone in this corporate world?

Come on Harmonix, I dare you to put Everyone’s a Wally in the next Rock Band game!