Introduction

For three gripping years, fans of the hit animated series Arcane have been treated to the infectious intro song, “Enemy,” by Imagine Dragons and JID. This powerful track quickly became an anthem of the show, cementing itself in the hearts of fans through its stirring visuals and catchy melody. As Arcane wraps up its incredible journey, Riot Games has delighted audiences by releasing a full version of the song that started it all.

Distinct Versions of 'Enemy'

Interestingly, the “Enemy” featured in Arcane has a distinctly different vibe compared to the version available on digital platforms since its release in 2021. While the original is unmistakably a pop anthem typical of Imagine Dragons, the version used in Arcane captures a unique “League of Legends energy.” Orchestral strings and trumpets replace the thumping drums and bass, while a ticking clock ticks away ominously during JID's verse, contributing to an ambiance that makes it feel like a true Arcane composition—as if it could easily serve as a theme for Riot's annual World Championship.

Imagine Dragons' Musical Journey

Imagine Dragons’ rise to fame began with their hit single 'Radioactive' in 2011, making their music ubiquitous across various media—from commercials to movie trailers. This journey eventually led them to collaborate with Riot Games, composing the compelling anthem 'Warriors' for the inaugural League of Legends World Championship in 2014. According to Arcane co-creator Christian Linke, the creative team actively pursued artists they admired when selecting the soundtrack for the show, despite initial reluctance from record labels about associating their artists with an animated series based on a niche game. Imagine Dragons, however, advocated fiercely to be part of the project, leading to 'Enemy' becoming a remarkable streaming success—a pivotal moment that helped define both the band's identity and the essence of Arcane.

The Ongoing Collaboration Between Artists and Riot Games

The collaboration between Imagine Dragons and Riot Games laid a strong foundation for further musical ventures tied to League of Legends. Artists have been contributing to Arcane via Riot’s championship songs, such as Pvris with 'Burn It All Down' and a remix featuring Denzel Curry. While the trend hasn't continued for the upcoming season, the newly revived Linkin Park has released 'Heavy is the Crown,' which will feature prominently in both the show and the upcoming Worlds 2024 event. Composer Alexander 'Mako' Seaver, who first gained recognition for tracks like 'Legends Never Die,' has returned to craft a breathtaking soundtrack that resonates deeply with fans.

Conclusion: What’s Next?

Although it’s tempting to elevate Imagine Dragons to an undisputed throne of musical greatness following their significant influence over Riot's productions, opinions on their music can be divisive. Many may appreciate their blend of cinematic sound and mainstream appeal, yet personal tastes may lead some fans to move away from repetitive listens. Nevertheless, this fresh rendition of 'Enemy' does well to encapsulate the full-circle moment of their collaboration with Riot Games. Now, as we celebrate the end of an era, the burning question remains: who will take the musical reins for the next Arcane installment or Riot’s forthcoming venture? Keep your ears open; the next anthem is just around the corner!