Play A Little Game (DECISION) by Sascha Ende
Intriguing and suspenseful underscore featuring delicate piano motifs, plucked strings, and evolving orchestral textures. Creates a tense, mysterious atmosphere ideal for cinematic drama, crime scenes, strategic gameplay, or corporate intrigue.
- License CC BY 4.0
- ISRC number DELJ81465397
- Released 12.05.2014
-
Genres
-
Topics
-
Moods
-
Tags
Produced using digital audio workstation and MIDI keyboard(s). Fully cleared for commercial use.
Play A Little Game (DECISION)
12.05.2014
5,126
287
Intriguing and suspenseful underscore featuring delicate piano motifs, plucked strings, and evolving orchestral textures. Creates a tense, mysterious atmosphere ideal for cinematic drama, crime scenes, strategic gameplay, or corporate intrigue.
/
02:04
00:00
00:00
Sparse, high-register piano motif establishes an immediate sense of mystery and tension.
00:08
00:08
Introduction of plucked strings (pizzicato effect) adds rhythmic intrigue and builds suspense.
00:16
00:16
Lower, sustained strings enter, adding depth, warmth, and a sense of gravitas.
00:34
00:34
Brief restatement of the plucked string motif, reinforcing the core tension.
00:48
00:48
Development section begins; piano becomes more melodic, strings swell, increasing emotional weight.
01:04
01:04
Orchestration reaches a fuller point, peak of the main development section.
01:20
01:20
Intensity subtly decreases, returning to a more sparse texture while maintaining underlying tension.
01:36
01:36
Final thematic statement and build with fuller strings, leading towards the conclusion.
01:52
01:52
Music begins to resolve/fade, ending with a sense of lingering suspense or contemplation.
Similar music (10)
The Bees
30.05.2012
3,022
143
Building orchestral layers and ethereal choir vocals create a powerful, dramatic atmosphere. Starts with tense percussion and evolves into an epic, cinematic soundscape ideal for trailers, game scores, and intense dramatic scenes.
/
03:56
00:00
00:00
Track begins with distinct, sparse percussion and atmospheric keys, establishing immediate suspense and intrigue.
00:17
00:17
Ethereal choir vocal textures enter, adding a significant layer of drama and grandeur.
00:56
00:56
Orchestral/synth elements begin to swell, hinting at the upcoming build.
01:09
01:09
Main theme introduced with stronger percussion and fuller orchestration, increasing intensity.
01:26
01:26
Significant dynamic build begins, layering instruments and raising tension.
01:44
01:44
First major peak intensity - full choir, powerful orchestration, and driving rhythm create an epic feel.
02:19
02:19
Brief dynamic drop, returning momentarily to the sparser opening texture before starting the next build.
02:36
02:36
Second major build-up commences, mirroring the earlier structure but leading to the final climax.
03:11
03:11
Final powerful thematic statement and peak intensity reprise.
03:29
03:29
Music begins to resolve and fade, bringing the dramatic journey to a close.
Criminals (DECISION)
08.05.2014
7,750
503
Mysterious and suspenseful orchestral track featuring pizzicato strings, low woodwinds, and building string sections. Creates a tense, plotting atmosphere ideal for crime scenes, investigation, stealth, or subtle dramatic underscore.
/
01:54
00:00
00:00
Track begins with distinctive pizzicato strings and low woodwind, establishing the quirky, suspenseful motif.
00:11
00:11
Sustained legato strings enter, adding a layer of dramatic weight and emotional depth.
00:22
00:22
String textures become fuller, harmonies develop, subtly increasing the overall tension.
00:33
00:33
Main theme stated more firmly by the string section, reinforcing the central idea.
01:01
01:01
Restatement of the primary theme, maintaining the established mood of intrigue.
01:17
01:17
A subtle dynamic swell and harmonic shift create a peak moment of understated intensity.
01:34
01:34
Transition section with evolving harmony, preparing for the track's conclusion.
01:45
01:45
Return to the opening pizzicato motif, bringing the piece to a close with lingering mystery.
Konfrontation (Romeos Erbe)
17.03.2018
9,620
730
Evocative and deeply emotional string ensemble piece, building from melancholic reflection to dramatic intensity. Ideal for cinematic scoring, poignant moments, trailers, and serious narrative underscoring.
/
02:31
00:01
00:01
Sparse, melancholic string intro sets a somber, contemplative mood.
00:36
00:36
Main string theme enters with more definition and emotional weight.
00:48
00:48
Higher strings join, thickening the harmony and increasing dramatic tension.
01:13
01:13
Subtle harmonic layers added underneath, enriching the texture.
01:40
01:40
Significant increase in intensity and dynamics, fuller orchestration feel.
01:58
01:58
Peak emotional intensity reached with powerful, sustained string swells.
02:17
02:17
Music begins to recede and fade, providing a lingering, unresolved feeling.
Cinema Blockbuster Trailer 15
05.05.2019
26,206
1,751
Intense orchestral piece builds with dramatic strings, powerful percussion hits, and driving tension. Creates an epic, suspenseful atmosphere ideal for high-impact trailers, action sequences, and dramatic reveals.
/
01:14
00:00
00:00
Introduction with tense, rhythmic staccato string ostinato, establishing immediate suspense.
00:12
00:12
Entry of low percussion and deeper strings, adding weight and initiating the build.
00:22
00:22
First major dynamic swell and percussive hit, introducing brass/choir elements and raising the stakes.
00:34
00:34
Brief pause/reset in intensity before the next major build section.
00:45
00:45
Second major build begins, featuring more complex orchestration and driving percussion.
00:50
00:50
Significant climax with full orchestra, choir, and powerful percussion hits.
01:07
01:07
Final impactful hit and rapid decay, providing a clean end point.
Whispers Of The Forest
15.11.2023
11,986
838
Urgent strings and a driving orchestral arrangement create a sense of dramatic tension and mystery. Ideal for cinematic sequences, historical dramas, fantasy adventures, or suspenseful underscores.
/
03:25
00:01
00:01
Track begins immediately with urgent, rhythmic string ostinato, establishing tension.
00:12
00:12
Introduction of the main thematic motif in strings, maintaining the serious, driving feel.
0:44
0:44
Brief harmonic shift offering a slightly more open, yet still tense, variation.
01:01
01:01
Clear increase in intensity and dynamic level, initiating a significant build-up section.
01:19
01:19
Thematic development with fuller orchestration, creating a more powerful and epic sound.
02:02
02:02
Introduction of a potent, brass-like fanfare element (likely layered strings/woodwinds) enhancing the dramatic power.
02:20
02:20
Peak intensity section with full-sounding orchestral force, driving rhythm, and strong melodic statements.
02:55
02:55
Return to the main thematic material, signaling the start of the concluding section.
03:12
03:12
Final thematic statements leading into a relatively quick fade-out, maintaining the serious mood.
Dawn's First Light
22.11.2023
3,607
122
An urgent and dramatic orchestral cue featuring driving staccato strings and bold brass figures. Builds tension quickly, ideal for impactful intros, news segments, cinematic trailers, or historical dramas.
/
00:17
00:00
00:00
Opening with a distinct, slightly tense melodic motif in the strings/winds.
00:03
00:03
Transition to the main driving, rhythmic section featuring prominent staccato strings.
00:05
00:05
Introduction of bolder, punctuating brass elements adding weight and drama.
00:09
00:09
Rhythmic intensity peaks, showcasing the driving orchestral force.
00:13
00:13
Concluding flourish/hit providing a sense of finality to the short cue.
Star Citizen - The Awakening Of Pyro
22.08.2024
2,882
157
Expansive orchestral score building from atmospheric mystery to a powerful, driving climax. Features soaring strings, bold brass, epic choir, and thunderous percussion, perfect for sci-fi trailers, game intros, or dramatic reveals.
/
02:08
00:01
00:01
Atmospheric intro establishing mystery with choir-like pads and low drones.
00:19
00:19
Main orchestral theme emerges via strings, setting a grand yet slightly somber tone.
00:35
00:35
Significant resonant hit/swell introduces a greater sense of scale and impending drama.
00:58
00:58
Prominent choir entry marks the beginning of the major build-up, increasing intensity.
01:12
01:12
Rhythm becomes more driving, signifying a shift towards action and heightened tension.
01:27
01:27
Main climactic section begins: full orchestra, choir, and powerful percussion deliver maximum impact.
02:03
02:03
Track concludes with an abrupt, powerful final hit.
Gladiator
04.12.2024
3,502
248
Epic orchestral score featuring powerful choir, driving percussion, and soaring strings. Builds tension dramatically towards an intense, heroic climax. Ideal for trailers, game soundtracks, historical dramas, and action sequences demanding a sense of grandeur and conflict.
/
02:12
00:00
00:00
Atmospheric intro with layered, humming vocal textures establishing a serious, anticipatory mood.
00:14
00:14
Main choral vocal theme enters with subtle percussion, defining the track's core identity.
00:43
00:43
Orchestral elements swell, percussion becomes more prominent, beginning the main dramatic build-up.
01:05
01:05
Heroic brass/horn motif introduced, adding a layer of grandeur and determination.
01:12
01:12
Tempo/Intensity increases significantly with driving strings and powerful percussion, pushing towards the climax.
01:26
01:26
Peak intensity – full orchestra, pounding drums, and soaring choir deliver the main climax.
01:42
01:42
Sudden musical cutoff, providing a sharp transition or edit point before the outro.
01:49
01:49
Brief atmospheric outro returns, echoing the intro textures for a concluding moment.
1,426
59
Dramatic and suspenseful orchestral piece featuring tense strings, powerful brass swells, and evocative woodwind melodies. Builds tension effectively, suitable for cinematic scenes, game soundtracks, or dramatic storytelling.
/
02:31
00:00
00:00
Sharp orchestral stab followed by tense, high-register woodwind/string textures, establishing immediate suspense.
00:18
00:18
Introduction of a weighty low string/brass motif, adding an ominous undertone.
00:51
00:51
Major orchestral swell/hit signals a shift in intensity and dramatic focus.
01:01
01:01
Emergence of a more driving, rhythmic theme in lower strings and brass, suggesting impending action or conflict.
01:10
01:10
Dramatic pause followed by a powerful, resolving orchestral statement.
01:21
01:21
Transition to a more lyrical, slightly melancholic string melody, offering emotional contrast.
01:44
01:44
Fuller, broader string arrangement develops the previous melody with richer harmonies.
02:03
02:03
Return to a sparse, mysterious texture featuring a distinct woodwind motif.
02:15
02:15
Final sustained string notes leading to a concluding decay.
Cinema Blockbuster Trailer 51
15.04.2025
1,346
87
Intense and dramatic orchestral track building suspense with a recurring piano motif, powerful string sections, and explosive percussion hits. Ideal for epic film trailers, high-stakes action sequences, video game cutscenes, and impactful corporate presentations.
/
02:14
00:02
00:02
Track begins with iconic tense piano motif and impactful sound design hits, immediately setting a dramatic tone.
00:28
00:28
Introduction of driving, rhythmic string ostinato, initiating the build-up phase and increasing urgency.
00:48
00:48
Orchestral swell begins, broader string theme enters, adding scale and grandeur.
01:01
01:01
Percussion intensifies significantly, driving the track towards its main climax with powerful hits.
01:11
01:11
Peak intensity section featuring massive brass stabs, heavy percussion, and full orchestra.
01:21
01:21
Brief moment of lower dynamics post-climax, maintaining tension with lingering low strings and impacts.
01:34
01:34
Final percussive build sequence featuring repeated, increasingly forceful impacts.
01:48
01:48
Concluding powerful orchestral hit followed by resonant decay and atmospheric fade-out.
Alright, let's dive into "Play A Little Game (DECISION)". From a production music standpoint, this track immediately establishes itself as a highly usable and effective piece of underscore. The opening sets a distinct mood – sparse, slightly dissonant piano notes, treated perhaps with a subtle reverb or delay, instantly create an atmosphere of mystery and quiet tension. It's the kind of sound that pulls you into a scene, perfect for establishing shots in a crime drama, the opening moments of a psychological thriller, or even setting the stage for a complex decision-making process in a corporate narrative or strategy game.
The instrumentation is classic underscore territory, but handled with elegance. The interplay between the delicate piano figures and the carefully placed string textures – particularly the use of what sounds like pizzicato or short articulations around the 8-second mark – builds suspense without becoming overly intrusive. It understands its role: to support the narrative, not dominate it. The orchestration gradually swells, introducing lower string pads and more sustained melodic ideas around the 48-second mark, adding emotional weight and a sense of growing consequence. This development is crucial for media use, offering editors natural points to cut or build intensity alongside the visuals.
What makes this track particularly valuable for sync licensing is its controlled dynamics and clear emotional arc. It begins minimally, allowing dialogue or voiceover to sit comfortably on top, then strategically builds gravitas. There’s a palpable sense of contemplation, perhaps hesitation or strategic thinking, woven into the fabric of the music. This makes it incredibly versatile. Imagine this under a scene where a character is weighing their options, investigators piecing together clues, or even behind a tech company's reveal of a complex new product. It has that sophisticated, slightly cool, and intelligent feel.
The production quality is solid – the mix is clean, allowing each element its own space while contributing to the overall cohesive atmosphere. The piano has a clear, slightly intimate tone, while the strings provide a broader, more cinematic wash. There aren't any distracting elements; it feels polished and ready for professional integration.
For specific applications, this track is a natural fit for anything requiring suspense, drama, or a sense of intellectual puzzle-solving. Think investigative documentaries needing a thoughtful yet tense bed, scenes in films depicting espionage or subtle power plays, or even the background loop for a challenging puzzle section in a video game. It could also work surprisingly well in high-stakes corporate videos or advertising focusing on strategy, security, or complex problem-solving. Its inherent sense of anticipation and unresolved feeling, especially towards the end, makes it excellent for cliffhangers or moments leading up to a significant reveal. It’s a reliable, well-crafted cue that understands the nuances of scoring for picture.
The instrumentation is classic underscore territory, but handled with elegance. The interplay between the delicate piano figures and the carefully placed string textures – particularly the use of what sounds like pizzicato or short articulations around the 8-second mark – builds suspense without becoming overly intrusive. It understands its role: to support the narrative, not dominate it. The orchestration gradually swells, introducing lower string pads and more sustained melodic ideas around the 48-second mark, adding emotional weight and a sense of growing consequence. This development is crucial for media use, offering editors natural points to cut or build intensity alongside the visuals.
What makes this track particularly valuable for sync licensing is its controlled dynamics and clear emotional arc. It begins minimally, allowing dialogue or voiceover to sit comfortably on top, then strategically builds gravitas. There’s a palpable sense of contemplation, perhaps hesitation or strategic thinking, woven into the fabric of the music. This makes it incredibly versatile. Imagine this under a scene where a character is weighing their options, investigators piecing together clues, or even behind a tech company's reveal of a complex new product. It has that sophisticated, slightly cool, and intelligent feel.
The production quality is solid – the mix is clean, allowing each element its own space while contributing to the overall cohesive atmosphere. The piano has a clear, slightly intimate tone, while the strings provide a broader, more cinematic wash. There aren't any distracting elements; it feels polished and ready for professional integration.
For specific applications, this track is a natural fit for anything requiring suspense, drama, or a sense of intellectual puzzle-solving. Think investigative documentaries needing a thoughtful yet tense bed, scenes in films depicting espionage or subtle power plays, or even the background loop for a challenging puzzle section in a video game. It could also work surprisingly well in high-stakes corporate videos or advertising focusing on strategy, security, or complex problem-solving. Its inherent sense of anticipation and unresolved feeling, especially towards the end, makes it excellent for cliffhangers or moments leading up to a significant reveal. It’s a reliable, well-crafted cue that understands the nuances of scoring for picture.