Composer Sarah Schachner Breaks Down PREDATOR: BADLANDS, PREY & Iconic Game Scores

Film and gaming fans recently got an inside look at the mind of acclaimed composer Sarah Schachner during her Reddit AMA. Known for her atmospheric scores in PREDATOR: BADLANDS (in theaters now) and PREY, as well as Assassin’s Creed and Call of Duty, Schachner revealed her inspirations, creative struggles, and what’s next in her career.

From Video Games to Blockbuster Films

Schachner’s career began in gaming, where she crafted immersive soundtracks for Assassin’s Creed Origins and Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare. Her signature blend of organic and electronic sounds set her apart, leading to her Hollywood breakthrough.

When asked about transitioning between mediums, she said:
“Games are interactive, so music must adapt dynamically. Films follow a linear narrative, but both are about enhancing the emotional journey.”

Inside PREDATOR: BADLANDS & PREY’s Haunting Scores

Schachner’s work on PREY introduced Native American influences and primal rhythms, creating a visceral experience. For PREDATOR: BADLANDS, she shifted gears:
“BADLANDS is modern and militarized—more synthetic but still raw. I wanted to honor the original Predator theme while making it fresh.”

She also shared her biggest challenge:
“Last-minute re-edits meant rescoring action sequences in days. But that adrenaline is part of the job!”

Behind the Scenes: Crafting Assassin’s Creed & Call of Duty’s Music

For Assassin’s Creed Origins, Schachner used ancient instruments like the oud and lyre fused with modern synths. Call of Duty demanded relentless energy:
“The music has to keep players on edge without overpowering gameplay.”

What’s Next for Sarah Schachner?

While tight-lipped about upcoming projects, she teased:
“I’d love more sci-fi or historical epics. Maybe even a musical!”

Her advice for aspiring composers?
“Stay curious. Experiment. Every project teaches you something.”

Final Thoughts

Schachner’s AMA was a deep dive into the art of scoring. With PREDATOR: BADLANDS in theaters and more projects ahead, her influence in film and gaming continues to grow.

“Your scores don’t just accompany the action—they elevate it into an experience.” — Reddit fan