Left 4 Dead 2 writer Chet Faliszek says there’s a very good reason why one of the survivors of the zombie apocalypse appears to be such a big Depeche Mode fan.
Look closely at Rochelle’s shirt and you’ll notice that it’s not just a pleasant shade of pink, it’s a Depeche Mode shirt. Depeche Mode, for those who don’t know (and shame on you) is one of the most influential bands of the 80s, famous for hits like “Just Can’t Get Enough,” “Stripped,” “Personal Jesus” and “Policy of Truth.” The band continues to record and perform today and released a new album, Sounds of the Universe, in April 2009. Rochelle’s not just a fan because someone at Valve is, however.
According to Faliszek, Valve solicited bands and labels to appear in the upcoming game but very few responded. Among them, obviously, was Depeche Mode, which gave the developer wide-ranging permission to use its recordings, likeness and fuchsia-toned duds in the game. He didn’t reveal how, or even if, the band or its members would appear elsewhere in the game, but I’ll be surprised if they don’t turn up somewhere.
I’m no fan of product placements but I really don’t mind this sort of thing. The band gets to remind people it’s still out there, but without the sort of jarring insertions we’re used to seeing in movies. It’s realistic and natural, and with even odds that I’ll greet the dawn of Z-day wearing an Iron Maiden shirt, who am I to complain about an appearance by the Mode?
Source: Kotaku
