Bethesda denies DOOM Eternal composer’s ‘distortion of the truth’

Bethesda denies allegations made by composer Mick Gordon in regard to the DOOM Eternal soundtrack controversy.

In case you didn’t know, let’s recap. Back in May 2020, DOOM Eternal executive producer, Marty Stratton addressed “speculation and criticism” surrounding the game’s soundtrack. The statement was made in a lengthy Reddit post.

YouTube video

DOOM Eternal producer responded to allegations

Some have suggested that we’ve been careless with or disrespectful of the game music,” said Stratton. “Others have speculated that [Gordon] wasn’t given the time or creative freedom to deliver something different or better. The fact is – none of that is true.

In a nutshell, it was claimed by Mick Gordon, who composed the soundtrack for DOOM (2016) as well as its sequel, that Bethesda provided a lack of information, little to no communication and unrealistic deadlines which resulted in working crunch hours, to name but a few. Not to mention claims of unpaid work.

doom eternal
Credit: Bethesda/id Software

What’s more, it was reported that much of the DOOM Eternal soundtrack was edited in-house by id Software’s lead audio designer. However, Gordon claimed that the editing of his tracks was not to his standard.

Gordon was not happy with Bethesda and id Software

Furthermore, Gordon later claimed that tracks id Software had rejected, were later found in the released version of the game. Gordon also claimed that he was not paid for the tracks which were apparently discarded.

YouTube video

Stratton continued: “What has become unacceptable to me are the direct and personal attacks on our lead audio designer – particularly considering his outstanding contributions to the game – as well as the damage this mischaracterisation is doing to the many talented people who have contributed to the game and continue to support it.

Gordon responded with proof of his claims

However, after waiting nearly two years, Mick Gordon responded to the statement made by Matt Stratton in 2020. Gordon’s statement went into great detail providing his version of events. What’s more, Gordon seemingly provided various pieces of evidence to back up his claims. You can read the accounts of Mick Gordon here if you want more detail.

Well, Bethesda has now responded to the allegations made by Mick Gordon and accused the composer of “both mischaracterised and misrepresented the team at id Software, the development of Doom Eternal, Marty Stratton, and Chad Mossholder with a one-sided and unjust account of an irreparable professional relationship”.

Bethesda denies Doom Eternal allegations

We are aware of all the details and history in this matter and unequivocally support Marty, Chad, and the team at id Software,” the statement continued. “We reject the distortion of the truth and selective presentation of incomplete ‘facts’. We stand ready with full and complete documented evidence to disclose in an appropriate venue as needed.

During Gordon’s recent response, he made it clear that his issue lies with the management of id Software as well as Bethesda, and not the whole dev team. Gordon also pleaded with fans not to harass any team or individuals.

In Bethesda’s statement, it also pleaded with fans to “refrain from reaching conclusions based on his account, and more importantly, from attacking any of the individuals mentioned on either side, including Marty, Chad, or Mick.

doom eternal
Credit: Bethesda/id Software

There are always two sides

It’s worth keeping in mind, that there are always two sides to a story. At this time, it seems only Mick Gordon has provided receipts to back up his claims. So, we’ll wait to see if Bethesda can back up its own claims to the statements provided.

What are your thoughts on this developing DOOM Eternal story? Let us know across our social media channels.

While you’re here, be sure to check out our video of the week. 10 of the scariest horror games of all time are shown off. What is your favourite horror game?

YouTube video

Featured Image Credit: Bethesda/Source: Eurogamer/Eurogamer