Hi Floris, thank you for you kind words! Juxtaposition is something I think about constantly in my compositions, as well as the listener's experience.
I used Berlin Strings from Orchestral Tools for my strings writing. It has a smaller size (8.6.5.5.4) and to me it sounds closer to what a real classical string ensemble sounds like as well as more human compare to other popular string library that aims for the more produced Hollywood sound. I haven't checked out Peteris Vasks library yet, but perhaps because it is produced by the same company you have noticed their similarity of sound. You have great ears!
This is my first jam I've joined, but I've already noticed some bangers from others that far exceed common level of video game soundtrack in this jam. Really excited to see more talented composers/producers come into the game space and expect to see new stars rising from this community.