TL;DR
Ragnarock has introduced two new free licensed tracks in its latest update, marking the first new music since July 2025. The update also changes the tutorial song due to licensing issues. The process highlights the challenges of licensing in VR rhythm games.
Ragnarock, the Viking-themed VR rhythm game, has added two new licensed tracks for free in its latest update, the first new music since July 2025. This development comes amid a slower pace of music releases compared to competitors like Beat Saber and Synth Riders. The update also includes a change to the tutorial song due to licensing expiration, marking a notable shift in the game’s content.
The two new tracks are ‘Strangeland’ by Mister Misery (2020) and ‘Hard Rock Hallelujah’ by Lordi (2006). The update was announced by Wanadev Studio, the developer behind Ragnarock, which explained that acquiring licensed music involves a lengthy process of contacting rights holders, securing approval, and ensuring fair compensation. This process often results in delays, making Ragnarock’s recent update a significant milestone.
Compared to other VR rhythm games like Beat Saber and Synth Riders, which have released multiple new tracks in 2026, Ragnarock’s update is relatively infrequent. Wanadev Studio highlighted that licensing complexities are a key factor, as each song must be officially licensed from rights holders, including bands or publishers, with royalties paid accordingly. The studio also mentioned its ongoing work on other projects, such as the upcoming co-op survival horror game ‘Species Unknown.’
Impact of New Tracks on Ragnarock’s Player Base
The addition of two free licensed tracks signals a potential revival in Ragnarock’s music updates, which have been less frequent than competitors. This may influence player engagement and satisfaction, especially among fans awaiting new content. It also underscores the ongoing challenges developers face in licensing music for VR games, which can delay content updates and affect competitiveness in a crowded market.
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Licensing Challenges and Update History for Ragnarock
Since its release, Ragnarock has been slower to add new music compared to peers like Beat Saber and Synth Riders. Its last paid music pack was released last summer, featuring five tracks. The current update marks a rare instance of new free content, emphasizing the complexity of licensing. Wanadev Studio has detailed the months-long process required to secure rights, which involves negotiations with rights holders and artist compensation, often delaying updates.
This process is more straightforward for larger companies like Meta, which owns Beat Saber, due to their extensive resources. Wanadev Studio, meanwhile, has been balancing Ragnarock updates with other projects, including the upcoming ‘Species Unknown’ for flatscreen platforms.
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Unconfirmed Details About Future Music Updates
It is not yet clear how frequently Ragnarock will release new tracks moving forward or whether additional licensed tracks are currently in the pipeline. The studio has not provided a specific timeline for upcoming music updates, and licensing negotiations are ongoing, which could affect future releases.
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Next Steps for Ragnarock’s Music Content
Wanadev Studio is likely to continue working on licensing new tracks, but the pace remains uncertain. Fans can expect further updates to the game, potentially including more free licensed tracks, as the studio navigates licensing negotiations. Additionally, the studio’s focus on other projects may influence the frequency of Ragnarock’s future content releases.
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Key Questions
What are the new tracks added to Ragnarock?
The new tracks are ‘Strangeland’ by Mister Misery and ‘Hard Rock Hallelujah’ by Lordi.
Why has Ragnarock been slower to add new music?
The licensing process for music is complex and time-consuming, involving negotiations with rights holders and artist compensation, which has delayed updates compared to competitors.
Will there be more free tracks in the future?
This has not been confirmed. Wanadev Studio is likely to continue licensing music, but the frequency and number of future tracks remain uncertain.
How does licensing affect game updates?
Licensing can delay updates significantly because each new track requires approval and legal agreements, which can take months to finalize.
Is Ragnarock available on all VR platforms?
Yes, Ragnarock is available on Steam, Meta Quest, and PlayStation VR2.
Source: UploadVR
