Does all modern video game music have to be orchestral?

Just wondering about this since this seems to be a trend in modern video games. Basically most modern video game music I hear is in orchestral styling. Most of the times it's straight orchestral or sometimes it might even be orchestral music combined with techno beats. But yeah, from what I've heard most modern games use some kind of orchestral music. Basically what I'm asking here, is is it possible to make GOOD "modern" sounding video game music without putting it in an orchestral styling without making it sound too retro? I'd like to know your opinion.

I think it is. I'm just in the middle of a commission for a very neat platforming game (coming out on Steam in the next month or two) for which I'm required to do quite a non-orchestral sound set-up.

I think that it really depends on the game's genre. All these games that are just basically interactive movies...their scores will reflect that. Platforming games, puzzle games, and other less cinematic ventures will likely have their own style that doesn't always require an orchestra.

Yeah it doesn't HAVE to but it is common. I mean, do all movie scores have to be orchestral? No! It's just what suits the particular game best. RPGs - very orchestral. FPS games - techno but becoming more orchestral. Platformers can be pretty much anything catchy so it really is wide open.

I think those games that only exist to feed the eye (rather than the mind) generally require orchestral soundtracks. As mentioned, these are usually the huge, cinematic ventures.

For good, mostly non-orchestral modern game music, check out Unlimited SaGa. (I keep bringing this up because I think it's the best VG score ever) It has classicalish chamber musics and a good deal of fancy electronic musics. (there's a piece described by the composer as ''porno music'' on the second disk)