The Impact of Music and Sound in Gaming
Although the success of gaming is currently eclipsing that of music in the entertainment industry, the two can really be seen as partners. Without music, a game risks falling flat and not engaging players whereas games have introduced different music and musicians to thousands, if not millions, of new fans. There are many ways in which the two artforms work together to create some truly excellent projects.
Whether the music is part of the worldbuilding element of a game or the main focus, it could be argued that it plays as important a part as the graphics, storytelling and gameplay mechanics. Below, we’ve taken a look at some of the best examples of music and gaming collaborations which have created some really special moments.
Standout Soundtracks
Koji Kondo for Zelda, Nobuo Uematsu for Final Fantasy and Bobby Prince for Doom: three of the most recognised and lauded video game music composers of all time. Kondo’s original themes for the Zelda franchise are widely recognised as beautiful and accomplished compositions outside of their place in the game’s universe, but they also serve a real purpose in the gameplay of several Zelda titles. It is simply impossible to disconnect the world of Link and Hyrule from Kondo’s music, and pieces have even been performed with a live orchestra so that audiences can enjoy them in their full glory.
The same can be said for much of Uematsu’s work written for the Final Fantasy franchise. These atmospheric and wide-ranging games needed music which would add to the complex storylines and take players along for the ride. Uematsu’s music has been adapted and performed by several appreciative musical fans, such as jazz artist Jon Batiste. In stark contrast to the classical sound of these two composers is Bobby Prince’s work for 1993’s Doom which draws on influences like metal bands Alice in Chains and Pantera. A true masterpiece of its time, the Doom soundtrack utilised in-game sound effects and different frequencies to create an immersive soundtrack.
Get Into the Zone
Of course, for some games you must provide your own soundtrack. For example, whether playing at an online platform or sat at the table IRL, modern poker players are usually listening to their own carefully curated beats in order to help them concentrate and to motivate their minds. Depending on whether the game is a vital one or they are just playing casually, the genre of music might differ. Due to their contrasting approaches to the game, a streamer’s anthems might differ from someone who prefers to play in-person at the casino or a group of friends coming together for a Home Game. Popular categories, however, include house, hip hop and classic rock or pop.
Much like poker players, many eSports athletes set great store by their practicing playlists. Although it depends on the genre and gaming title which they excel in, most of them are able to listen to their own choice of music whilst practicing or even whilst involved in a live tournament. This approach can help to drown out background noise, keep a competitor relaxed and create the right atmosphere to thrive in.
Musical Gameplay
Rather than setting the tone for a game’s storyline or helping a player to focus their skills, some music is a vital element of the gameplay itself. Take, for example, titles such as Guitar Hero or the more recent Beat Saber. Without music, these games are almost unplayable and certainly not as much fun. The concept of Beat Saber is to slash through the pulses of musical rhythm as they fly towards you through VR-generated space, whereas Guitar Hero asks players to hold a guitar-shaped controller and play along with the music on screen.
Crypt of the Necrodancer is a rogue-like title which rewards players for timing their movements with the beats of the game’s various differing soundtracks. It’s a unique take on the introduction of music as a key component of gameplay but it is an awful lot of fun.
