My favorite section of the article is when it mentions the development of videogames and how the right soundtrack can create a different atmosphere for each part of the game. I’m personally not a gamer, but I can imagine creators wanting different background noise when a player has a victory and is surrounded by nature, versus a brutal fight around multiple people. The descriptions in this article reminded me of the flight of passage ride (it’s avatar themed) in Disney World.
Kalyn Randolph
When it comes to video games they have evolved so much over time. From the graphics to the storylines and also the music. For most people when they hear the music of video games it brings back so many memories. I know for me the Wii background music will always be a classic. I even find myself singing the tune and I’m not even playing the game. When video games were first made they were mostly in black and white and had no music, but when color and sound finally got added people wanted more and even looked towards turning on the game just to hear the background music.
Here is a link for a more in depth look on the evolution of video game music https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
Lynn Nguyen
Video games have evolved tremendously throughout generations. One section I read about was the “music to my ears” area with a link to Pokemon theme song. What I find crazy is that video games have a form of music. It’s not nonsense and a bunch of sounds put together. I analyzed one of the first Pokemon OP’S and the form of it is like any other type of music like Bach or Mozart, which I find pretty amazing.
Here is a link where you can find similarities between video game music and other types of music
As someone who has been playing video games pretty much my entire life I really enjoyed my time with this article. My earliest memories of music in video games was from the popular video game titles like Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Mario Bros, the Pokemon themes (just like the article mentioned) and even the Resident Evil 1, 2, and 3 save room themes and to this day those songs still give me that nostalgia feeling even though I’ve heard them HUNDREDS of times. I really agreed with the part where they mention how they’re using music to achieve immersion which I’ve experienced plenty of times especially in the Final Fantasy series with the intense boss themes or even just the intro songs. Even with the rhythm games like Dance Dance Revolution or like the article mentioned Guitar Hero you the player got to hold plastic instruments or dance on the dance pad to play the game completely immersing you in the experience. I personally cannot wait to hear what more beautiful music the video game industry has in store for us!
Here is a link to three of my current favorite songs in video games. https://youtu.be/h-0G_FI61a8 https://youtu.be/3V9zxXN1rx0 https://youtu.be/r-6e-mjsqxs
And final link to an article talking about the future of video game soundtracks. http://diymag.com/2016/01/07/whats-the-future-of-video-game-soundtracks
Savannah Simon
Much like music, video games have evolved greatly over the last couple of years. It’s very interesting to see how music can completely change the way a video game is felt and enjoyed by its players. Similar to how music evokes feelings in movies and tv shows, it can do the same thing in video games which have a storyline as well and can help transer you to a new fictional world. There are also certain themes that play during the game that indicate to a player that something is happening that has happened before. Theme songs also play a major role in video games and make them more memorable.
With recent technology many industries have advanced including the video game and music industry. In video games, music is used to create a scene where direct communication cannot. The advancement of music in these video games has overall changed the gaming experience. This article explains how the right music can match the protagonist and how music during a perfectly timed matter such as a struggle can make video games more interactive. Another way music is used is in rhythm games such as guitar hero. These games allow users to get the experience of making music right through their tv screen. I believe this advancement in video game/music technology is very innovative so I attached an article below that talks about its importance in more detail. https://nafme.org/rhythm-games-engage-motivate-young-musicians/
Astrid Topletz
This article is by far one of the best articles I have ever read. I appreciate how this article acknowledges how music is able to immerse the audience into many fantasy digital worlds that are shown in video games. In addition, the article recognizes other aspects in video games that help the audience become more attached and interactive with the game such as the scenery, the fight scenes, the dialogue, and more. Including music, all of these elements are crucial to making a video game an astounding form of entertainment that is enjoyed by numerous people all over the world. You can learn more about music in video games by clicking the link here: https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
Mariah Almeida
Music has the power to enhance emotions and help set the tone as well. Mostly every video game will have music playing in the background whether it be a small phone game or a more well known game like Mario Kart. Music is played to go along with the theme of the game and what the character is going through. For example, when reaching the boss level, the music usually get a little more dark and serious compared to the bubbly happy music that is played when you first start a game. (depending on the game) It is important to match the music to what is going on in the game and the tempo of the music should match the tempo of the game essentially. Here is a link about the impact of music in video games. https://sites.psu.edu/passionblogrmoussa/2015/09/24/the-impact-of-music-in-video-games/
Sydnie Gudson
This article did a great job delving into the importance of music in video games, and how music can often drive the tone for games in general. As technology advances in video games and music, the two industries have increasingly intertwined, and music has proven to be a large aspect of the appeal to games in general. In my personal experience, I can say with full confidence that music is often the leading factor of appeal to me. After playing or finishing a game, the one thing that I remember the most is the music and the effect that it has on the experience in general. Here is a link that delves more into the interactions between the two industries. https://www.theguardian.com/games/2018/aug/22/video-games-music-industry
Aaron Villarreal
Just like music, video games have become their own industry that still provides entertainment to consumers and also gives them the opportunity to find stardom. And just like in films, music in video games has the power to change the mood of the gamer as the story progresses. Music in video games have evolved from 8-bit tunes to full string orchestras being composed by the best of the music industry. Here I’ve attached an article listing the 25 greatest video game soundtracks of all time: https://www.gamesradar.com/the-25-greatest-video-game-soundtracks-of-all-time/
Lucas Balboa
Music has such a big impact in the video game industry. I didn’t realize how much actually goes into it. Its surprising how music influences the way we react to certain things and how with just the sound of music can change the way we feel. I am personally not a huge gamer myself but I used to watch my brother pay Skyrim and what I want to know is that why doesn’t that game have a lot of music in it? I understand that that’s one game out of millions out there but if video games have evolved so much in technology and with music why doesn’t this game have more music?
This was a very interesting read. I’ve grown up with a love for both music and video games and to read an article that highlights how important a soundtrack can be to a game’s overall experience is amazing. I still remember vividly the main menu music for games ranging from the Super Nintendo’s Super Mario World and Star Fox to the Xbox One’s Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 and Batman: Arkham Knight. The article touches on a subject: “These sounds can become even more memorable than the games themselves.”, and I couldn’t agree more.
Below I’ve linked the SoundCloud page of one of my favorite video game composers, Sarah Schachner. She is the creative genius behind the soundtracks of many Assassin’s Creed games, Need for Speed: The Run, and several Call of Duty games, including the latest game in the series that releases this week: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. I encourage everyone to check out the music!
I enjoyed this article because from an early age i noticed i was drawn to games with great music. As the article states, music in video games can be used in a multitude of ways such as signaling to the player to be alert with a change in tone. In sports games the soundtrack is crucial because the music they select can make the game feel high energy.
This was an interesting read. The value of music in video games is extremely important. Without music, the whole game would have a different feel. I can think back to opening up a game like Halo and the music just really pulls you into the game. So many other games that I have played have memorable soundtracks. Music in games should not be overlooked. This article has some of the best video game music ranked —> https://www.gamesradar.com/the-25-greatest-video-game-soundtracks-of-all-time/
Emily Krupa
This article provides a lot of insight into how music in videogames has grown with popularity. It’s interesting how much music can make a difference and how big of a role it plays in conveying the mood in the videogame. The players get to experience what the fictional characters go through and the article stated that some individuals get so involved in the character that they experience sadness when they die or get happy when they achieve something. This is all through the power of music to set the tone of the scene.
Here is a link to an article where the author describes videogames as an “audiovisual performance” in reference to the importance of music in videogames: https://attackofthefanboy.com/news/importance-music-video-games/
Shawn Horne
Just like music’s use in video games, this article uses emotional ques to convey it’s point: That music in video games is used for emotional effect. Music also sets tone and mood just as in movies and TV shows. It can be ironic, like when happy music plays behind a gruesome scene. Or as the link below describes (my favorite phrase) “A story with no words”. From reading their posts, even though there are many years that separate us, my classmates and I both share a love of music and gaming. Also I am listening to the Skyrim soundtrack as I type this.
This article has by far been my favorite one to read. I play video games and over the years I have noticed the music in games have came a long way. In most adventure games they have added insane background music and majority of the time it coincides with what is going on during the mission. Making it more intense or calm. Even in NBA 2k they recently started getting big name artists to curate the playlists for the games. Last year they did Travis Scott and they first started the process with Jay Z. The music makes the games better in my opinion because without the music there would be no drama or intensity. The link i am putting is an article talking about the importance of music on video games. https://www.anarapublishing.com/the-importance-of-music-in-video-games/
Shawn Garcia
The article given to us gives a different perspective in the music business as it goes into what video games use in order to captivate an audiences attention through out the stories they try to create. The article states how it has been a long while since 8-bit and MIDI soundtracks had been involved in the classic Zelda games or Super Mario franchises back in the day. But as technology advanced, so did the gaming industry and the new exciting soundtracks they would end up using in order to drive their audiences to new heights in a different world they can experience for themselves. Video Games now a days are built on emotion and an adrenaline of feelings which captivate a whole variety of audiences, so different kinds of songs being used help capture those feelings. Different types of genres of games do the same thing in their own exciting ways for the different gamer who wants that different exhilarating experience.
I have played my fair share of video games, and I have noticed a significant progression toward being more cinematic and focusing more on the underlying story that accompanies the game. This is really cool to witness, especially with CGI graphics advancing to such a degree that the scenes between game-play nearly resemble Hollywood movie quality. However, I had never thought about the musical aspect of this trend, how game designers were collaborating with brilliant composers to use music in a similar but unique way to illicit emotion from the audience while also functioning during game-play. Once I understood conceptually how difficult composing for video games really was, I understood why video game composers get paid so well. This made me wonder which video games have done the best job at using music to best enhance the game. I found a website that gives their top 25 video game soundtracks with short descriptions on why these soundtracks are so great: https://www.gamesradar.com/the-25-greatest-video-game-soundtracks-of-all-time/
Kemi Babalola
I’m not a big fan of video games, but I do always enjoy and appreciate nice sound tracks and effects that make the game realistic in a way. This article put into perspective of how music really does have a hand in many industries. This article talks about the many roles that sound plays a part in the gaming industry; and this article taught me how things have evolved into such intricate detailing that goes into a single game. https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/how-video-games-changed-popular-music
Austin Donnelly
I never really thought about how video games essentially started it’s own genre of music with “chiptune”. It also amazes me how they program the music into the games. What I mean is that, unlike movies, video games are not linear. They can have a bunch of different paths you can take so music has to be made and programmed for every part of the game. Here is an article spotlighting video game composer Eimear Noone, who worked on the soundtracks to a lot of Blizzard’s games: https://www.theguardian.com/games/2019/oct/22/mozart-video-game-music-composer-eimear-noone
Devin A. Saucedo-Rivera
I was instantly intrigued by the mere title and content of this article. As an avid player of video games, I can confidently say that the music sets the tone of whatever the developers are hoping to convey to the player. If there is a lack of music or the music chosen does not match the situation then the whole atmosphere of the game can be thrown off. Due to this, there are soundtracks that are instantly recognizable such as the soundtracks in Pokemon games, which has many fans around the world. The music was able to develop feelings of success, suspense, and even sad emotions as the music is played throughout various circumstances in the game. As the article also describes, music nowadays is still used within games with the purpose of making the players feel whatever the developers want whether this be adrenaline, suspense, or joy, Furthermore, each game has its own specific sound as a horror game that wants to induce fear and suspense would not have the same music as Pokemon which can be described as uplifting and playful.
The article speaks of how music plays a role in videogames, movies, tv, and so much more. Music helps the play , viewer or who ever it may be get more into the task they are doing. The music in videogames have evolved over time (as an active player I know this) this has changed the way games are played and view. In some cases a simple song can take anyone to one of their favorite moments in tv, videogames, or even life moment. The video game industry are getting better music and some songs made just for the game I find that amazing and I am glad videogames and music are going hand to hand.
This is the report IGN (videogame report site) put out the play list of GTA 5 with what radio station you can the songs. I love this game and the music also they add more songs over time. https://www.ign.com/wikis/gta-5/Soundtrack_and_Radio
Rolando Handy
Ever Since I was a kid I have always love video game music, and video games are what got me into music in the first place. This article expands on the fact that music plays a crucial role in video games. Whether it is just mere background noise or intense boss level music, it all enhances the game. Games like World of Warcraft and Halo have very dark orchestral music that fits the atmosphere of the games, while Minecraft comes with very peaceful, relaxing music to fit the natural world that the player lives in. As time went on the simple MIDI tunes evolved into metal music and orchestra scores in video games, and even real songs in some cases, like Grand Theft Auto. Here is an article on the evolution of video game music.
Very interesting article, it’s so cool how far the music for video games has come. In recent video games, (especially horror ones) the music allows you to be so immersive. Amazingly, it sounds like something you’d hear in movie!
The thing that struck me about this article was that it recognized the reason why we may feel nostalgic after we hear a certain piece of music. It explains that music has been helpful in creating an ambiance that goes well with what the player is experiencing in the game, something commonly known as a dynamic soundtrack. The writer also gives insight on how these sounds symbolize what might happen next in the game: harsh, masculine drum sounds might signal that a player is about to be attacked or a calming violin melody may be played the moment a player is atop a mountain, enjoying the view. I personally am not a gamer, but if I were, I would definitely take the music more seriously as it could potentially help me win the game.
Videos Games Have been growing ever since the very first one surfaced, and music has been there right along-side them. It is amazing how they even mimic films in that they go along with the actions of the audience/Player.
Here is an interesting Video game history timeline:
I loved reading this article because of the waves of nostalgia that hit me, especially when I listened to the Pokémon music that appears when you’re about to fight. This article really emphasizes how important music is in video games. Music in video games have the power to set the mood for the players and is an essential part to reaching to the emotional appeal of each player.
It’s interesting how this article mentions the evolution of videogames along with its soundtrack. From simple beeps and boops to actual scores and full songs. Today, music allows the gamer to immerse themselves in the world through emotional storytelling. Listening to a song outside a videogame triggers the memories associated with that song and experiences within the video game. Music drives the story of a videogame that can be remembered by a single hum or beat.
I had no idea that video games would have their own genre such as “chiptune.” I’m not very surprised because it is such a booming business. But the music they use really adds on to the adventure of the game. This is an article with some of the most iconic video game songs https://www.cnet.com/pictures/best-video-game-songs-of-all-time/
Victoria Gonzalez
Obviously, music inside a video game is very important. It is what distinguishes the game. In my opinion, music is what takes me to another place. Shouldn’t video games do that as well? Music is an important additive to the games because it takes you to wherever the game’s theme is. For example, Grand Theft Auto even has its own radio station. It honestly brings you inside the screen and puts you in the scene.
One really important subject that i liked that the article talked about is the importance to creating a feel for the game when making the background music for a video game. I appreciated the examples like the game “Last of Us” when it showed the importance of immersion and how something like a simple guitar in the background can make all the difference in emotion. I also enjoyed how in-depth it went into what exactly is important when making a video game soundtrack from games as playful as Mario, to games as deep as Last of Us.
here is a link to an article discussing the making of one of my favorite games, Skyrim: http://www.originalsoundversion.com/dragonborn-the-elder-scrolls-v-skyrim-original-game-soundtrack-review/
Dominique Salinas
The article was insightful in regards to the importance of music in video games. I admire how without music, the video game would be lifeless and dull, therefore music enhances the quality of the game, adds to the climax, and creates a keen memory for people, especially classic games where it adds a nostalgic effect. I liked the part of the article where the writer phrased music as “a way to directly communicate information in an artistic way”, because not only does it enhance the game, but it lets players know when something’s approaching such as a boss, etc. Here is a link I found about techniques people use to make video game music. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07494460802663983
Sarah Foy
I think the music in video games is something that is often overlooked. However, like the author of this article mentioned, the background music can truly make or break a scene in a video game. Games that were created to be scary wouldn’t have the same effect on the audience if they didn’t have the creepy background music to help pull the audience in. Music can have such a powerful effect on the emotions of the audience, and it has evolved a lot in recent video games.
I love this article because this is exactly the field I want to go into! Reading about it in action as a means to develop atmosphere and convey information. Going beyond common practice composing, videogame sound tracking creates an atmosphere that allows a player to fully immerse themselves in the virtual world. Music in video and arcade games has come so far in the last 40 years, it’s easy to forget the very simple beginnings of these tunes. Here is an article on the history of music in video games: https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
Tyra Brown
I have always wondered about music in video games and the people behind the scenes the making of that music we play in our games. Music definitely plays a huge part in making video game magic. It creates a sense of imagination for the player like they are actually in the game itself. In my personal experience growing up and playing the Gameboy hearing the chime when it first comes on gives me nostalgia, for a much simpler time.
As someone who has played their fair share of video games since early childhood, I find this article accurate in regards to how the right soundtrack can enhance a game to its full potential. One of my favorite soundtracks from a video game was from 007 Golden Eye on the Nintendo 64. This spy-thriller soundtrack made your heart race as you navigated various level as international spy James Bond. Below I have attached the soundtrack for this game, it’s worth listening to without the levels in my opinion.
Video games are my life. I have played many games and listened to many musical backgrounds during the games. With the evolution of the games, better pictures, better storylines, better musical enhancements, this article was very interesting to me and I related to it very well. It is true in the part that talks about the immersion of the player with the music, depending on what is going on in the game at that point. There is some music that enhances the feelings in the player to alert them something is coming, or danger is around or like with simpler games for the young at heart, the music is soothing or relaxing. When playing games, we don’t think about the people that created the music and how they have to come up with that effect to draw the player in to continue to play the game. Music is a big part of what intrigues me in these video games and the effectiveness of that music is what urges the player on.
I feel as if video game music is greatly underappreciated. Music can make the player feel like they are in the video game. For example, when I was swinging around NYC in the Spider-Man PS4 game, the background music along with the rumbling of the controller made me feel as if I was actually in the game. Here’s a link to the music for the game. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAZO7oFOg5k
Bao Luong
Role with music in gaming is such a powerful thing. Music is like a signal that alarming the brain of that specific memories of that moment. One of the example is Mario gaming with that music, when ever that music play it reminds me of little guys with red hat running jumping and eat shroom to get big. Music is such a powerful thing in gaming because it bring colors and lights and emotions into the game. When you music play it give you some sort of feeling at a certain time. Like you can’t fight the big boss in the game with slow below music, an upbeat music would be more hyper and challenging and give your mind a more competitive mode.
Here is the link that helps describe how music have a role in gaming https://www.headstuff.org/entertainment/gaming/music-in-the-key-of-gaming-the-effect-of-music-in-games/
Adam Garza
This article proves yet again the power of music and its effects on individuals. For such a long time video games, either playing or working for, have been widely regarded as wastes of time. The industry has since exploded and we know that it’s a hotbed for career opportunities, especially within music and recording. I liked how this article made everything so relatable and was obviously written by someone who games and still appreciates the music, even detailing the nostalgia when booting up a PlayStation.
“The Role of Music in Video Games” gave me a very different perspective on music’s power in every single thing. For someone who is not naturally a fan of video games, I can appreciate the growth in the music industry behind digital gaming from the 60’s up until this current day. Music has improved from beep bop sounds from games like Legend of Zelda and Mario Cart to filling orchestral symphonies during the climax of your favorite game. This leads me to think that the music itself has changed to become more complex and able, but do the memories attached to those nostalgic moments when hearing that music play change?
This article attached below dives into the ideas of emotion, nostalgia, and setting.
As someone like myself who has grown up with many fond memories of playing video games, the soundtracks to these games is a very iconic and important part of my life and aspect to what makes these video games so great. I still listen to certain soundtracks to games on my free time cause they hold such a special place in my heart. The atmosphere and tone of the game is highly dependent on the soundtrack and they wouldn’t be what they are without it. Here’s a link regarding more on soundtracks: https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
I found the aricle’s look into how the music industry has been shaped by the video game industry, and vice versa. I have linked to a performance of music in video games throughout the decades.
My favorite section of the article is when it mentions the development of videogames and how the right soundtrack can create a different atmosphere for each part of the game. I’m personally not a gamer, but I can imagine creators wanting different background noise when a player has a victory and is surrounded by nature, versus a brutal fight around multiple people. The descriptions in this article reminded me of the flight of passage ride (it’s avatar themed) in Disney World.
When it comes to video games they have evolved so much over time. From the graphics to the storylines and also the music. For most people when they hear the music of video games it brings back so many memories. I know for me the Wii background music will always be a classic. I even find myself singing the tune and I’m not even playing the game. When video games were first made they were mostly in black and white and had no music, but when color and sound finally got added people wanted more and even looked towards turning on the game just to hear the background music.
Here is a link for a more in depth look on the evolution of video game music
https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
Video games have evolved tremendously throughout generations. One section I read about was the “music to my ears” area with a link to Pokemon theme song. What I find crazy is that video games have a form of music. It’s not nonsense and a bunch of sounds put together. I analyzed one of the first Pokemon OP’S and the form of it is like any other type of music like Bach or Mozart, which I find pretty amazing.
Here is a link where you can find similarities between video game music and other types of music
https://midnightmusic.com.au/2016/06/the-guide-to-composing-music-for-video-games/
As someone who has been playing video games pretty much my entire life I really enjoyed my time with this article. My earliest memories of music in video games was from the popular video game titles like Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Mario Bros, the Pokemon themes (just like the article mentioned) and even the Resident Evil 1, 2, and 3 save room themes and to this day those songs still give me that nostalgia feeling even though I’ve heard them HUNDREDS of times. I really agreed with the part where they mention how they’re using music to achieve immersion which I’ve experienced plenty of times especially in the Final Fantasy series with the intense boss themes or even just the intro songs. Even with the rhythm games like Dance Dance Revolution or like the article mentioned Guitar Hero you the player got to hold plastic instruments or dance on the dance pad to play the game completely immersing you in the experience. I personally cannot wait to hear what more beautiful music the video game industry has in store for us!
Here is a link to three of my current favorite songs in video games.
https://youtu.be/h-0G_FI61a8
https://youtu.be/3V9zxXN1rx0
https://youtu.be/r-6e-mjsqxs
And final link to an article talking about the future of video game soundtracks.
http://diymag.com/2016/01/07/whats-the-future-of-video-game-soundtracks
Much like music, video games have evolved greatly over the last couple of years. It’s very interesting to see how music can completely change the way a video game is felt and enjoyed by its players. Similar to how music evokes feelings in movies and tv shows, it can do the same thing in video games which have a storyline as well and can help transer you to a new fictional world. There are also certain themes that play during the game that indicate to a player that something is happening that has happened before. Theme songs also play a major role in video games and make them more memorable.
Here’s an article that also discusses the role of importance music plays in video games:
https://www.anarapublishing.com/the-importance-of-music-in-video-games/
With recent technology many industries have advanced including the video game and music industry. In video games, music is used to create a scene where direct communication cannot. The advancement of music in these video games has overall changed the gaming experience. This article explains how the right music can match the protagonist and how music during a perfectly timed matter such as a struggle can make video games more interactive. Another way music is used is in rhythm games such as guitar hero. These games allow users to get the experience of making music right through their tv screen. I believe this advancement in video game/music technology is very innovative so I attached an article below that talks about its importance in more detail.
https://nafme.org/rhythm-games-engage-motivate-young-musicians/
This article is by far one of the best articles I have ever read. I appreciate how this article acknowledges how music is able to immerse the audience into many fantasy digital worlds that are shown in video games. In addition, the article recognizes other aspects in video games that help the audience become more attached and interactive with the game such as the scenery, the fight scenes, the dialogue, and more. Including music, all of these elements are crucial to making a video game an astounding form of entertainment that is enjoyed by numerous people all over the world. You can learn more about music in video games by clicking the link here: https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
Music has the power to enhance emotions and help set the tone as well. Mostly every video game will have music playing in the background whether it be a small phone game or a more well known game like Mario Kart. Music is played to go along with the theme of the game and what the character is going through. For example, when reaching the boss level, the music usually get a little more dark and serious compared to the bubbly happy music that is played when you first start a game. (depending on the game) It is important to match the music to what is going on in the game and the tempo of the music should match the tempo of the game essentially. Here is a link about the impact of music in video games. https://sites.psu.edu/passionblogrmoussa/2015/09/24/the-impact-of-music-in-video-games/
This article did a great job delving into the importance of music in video games, and how music can often drive the tone for games in general. As technology advances in video games and music, the two industries have increasingly intertwined, and music has proven to be a large aspect of the appeal to games in general. In my personal experience, I can say with full confidence that music is often the leading factor of appeal to me. After playing or finishing a game, the one thing that I remember the most is the music and the effect that it has on the experience in general. Here is a link that delves more into the interactions between the two industries. https://www.theguardian.com/games/2018/aug/22/video-games-music-industry
Just like music, video games have become their own industry that still provides entertainment to consumers and also gives them the opportunity to find stardom. And just like in films, music in video games has the power to change the mood of the gamer as the story progresses. Music in video games have evolved from 8-bit tunes to full string orchestras being composed by the best of the music industry. Here I’ve attached an article listing the 25 greatest video game soundtracks of all time:
https://www.gamesradar.com/the-25-greatest-video-game-soundtracks-of-all-time/
Music has such a big impact in the video game industry. I didn’t realize how much actually goes into it. Its surprising how music influences the way we react to certain things and how with just the sound of music can change the way we feel. I am personally not a huge gamer myself but I used to watch my brother pay Skyrim and what I want to know is that why doesn’t that game have a lot of music in it? I understand that that’s one game out of millions out there but if video games have evolved so much in technology and with music why doesn’t this game have more music?
here’s more information on background music in the video game industry.
https://www.longdom.org/open-access/the-influence-of-background-music-of-video-games-on-immersion-2161-0487-1000191.pdf
This was a very interesting read. I’ve grown up with a love for both music and video games and to read an article that highlights how important a soundtrack can be to a game’s overall experience is amazing. I still remember vividly the main menu music for games ranging from the Super Nintendo’s Super Mario World and Star Fox to the Xbox One’s Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 and Batman: Arkham Knight. The article touches on a subject: “These sounds can become even more memorable than the games themselves.”, and I couldn’t agree more.
Below I’ve linked the SoundCloud page of one of my favorite video game composers, Sarah Schachner. She is the creative genius behind the soundtracks of many Assassin’s Creed games, Need for Speed: The Run, and several Call of Duty games, including the latest game in the series that releases this week: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. I encourage everyone to check out the music!
https://soundcloud.com/sarahschachner
I enjoyed this article because from an early age i noticed i was drawn to games with great music. As the article states, music in video games can be used in a multitude of ways such as signaling to the player to be alert with a change in tone. In sports games the soundtrack is crucial because the music they select can make the game feel high energy.
Here is an article on the evolution of video game music –> https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
This was an interesting read. The value of music in video games is extremely important. Without music, the whole game would have a different feel. I can think back to opening up a game like Halo and the music just really pulls you into the game. So many other games that I have played have memorable soundtracks. Music in games should not be overlooked. This article has some of the best video game music ranked —> https://www.gamesradar.com/the-25-greatest-video-game-soundtracks-of-all-time/
This article provides a lot of insight into how music in videogames has grown with popularity. It’s interesting how much music can make a difference and how big of a role it plays in conveying the mood in the videogame. The players get to experience what the fictional characters go through and the article stated that some individuals get so involved in the character that they experience sadness when they die or get happy when they achieve something. This is all through the power of music to set the tone of the scene.
Here is a link to an article where the author describes videogames as an “audiovisual performance” in reference to the importance of music in videogames: https://attackofthefanboy.com/news/importance-music-video-games/
Just like music’s use in video games, this article uses emotional ques to convey it’s point: That music in video games is used for emotional effect. Music also sets tone and mood just as in movies and TV shows. It can be ironic, like when happy music plays behind a gruesome scene. Or as the link below describes (my favorite phrase) “A story with no words”. From reading their posts, even though there are many years that separate us, my classmates and I both share a love of music and gaming. Also I am listening to the Skyrim soundtrack as I type this.
https://lwos.life/2017/12/28/importance-music-video-games/
This article has by far been my favorite one to read. I play video games and over the years I have noticed the music in games have came a long way. In most adventure games they have added insane background music and majority of the time it coincides with what is going on during the mission. Making it more intense or calm. Even in NBA 2k they recently started getting big name artists to curate the playlists for the games. Last year they did Travis Scott and they first started the process with Jay Z. The music makes the games better in my opinion because without the music there would be no drama or intensity. The link i am putting is an article talking about the importance of music on video games. https://www.anarapublishing.com/the-importance-of-music-in-video-games/
The article given to us gives a different perspective in the music business as it goes into what video games use in order to captivate an audiences attention through out the stories they try to create. The article states how it has been a long while since 8-bit and MIDI soundtracks had been involved in the classic Zelda games or Super Mario franchises back in the day. But as technology advanced, so did the gaming industry and the new exciting soundtracks they would end up using in order to drive their audiences to new heights in a different world they can experience for themselves. Video Games now a days are built on emotion and an adrenaline of feelings which captivate a whole variety of audiences, so different kinds of songs being used help capture those feelings. Different types of genres of games do the same thing in their own exciting ways for the different gamer who wants that different exhilarating experience.
I have played my fair share of video games, and I have noticed a significant progression toward being more cinematic and focusing more on the underlying story that accompanies the game. This is really cool to witness, especially with CGI graphics advancing to such a degree that the scenes between game-play nearly resemble Hollywood movie quality. However, I had never thought about the musical aspect of this trend, how game designers were collaborating with brilliant composers to use music in a similar but unique way to illicit emotion from the audience while also functioning during game-play. Once I understood conceptually how difficult composing for video games really was, I understood why video game composers get paid so well. This made me wonder which video games have done the best job at using music to best enhance the game. I found a website that gives their top 25 video game soundtracks with short descriptions on why these soundtracks are so great: https://www.gamesradar.com/the-25-greatest-video-game-soundtracks-of-all-time/
I’m not a big fan of video games, but I do always enjoy and appreciate nice sound tracks and effects that make the game realistic in a way. This article put into perspective of how music really does have a hand in many industries. This article talks about the many roles that sound plays a part in the gaming industry; and this article taught me how things have evolved into such intricate detailing that goes into a single game.
https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/how-video-games-changed-popular-music
I never really thought about how video games essentially started it’s own genre of music with “chiptune”. It also amazes me how they program the music into the games. What I mean is that, unlike movies, video games are not linear. They can have a bunch of different paths you can take so music has to be made and programmed for every part of the game. Here is an article spotlighting video game composer Eimear Noone, who worked on the soundtracks to a lot of Blizzard’s games: https://www.theguardian.com/games/2019/oct/22/mozart-video-game-music-composer-eimear-noone
I was instantly intrigued by the mere title and content of this article. As an avid player of video games, I can confidently say that the music sets the tone of whatever the developers are hoping to convey to the player. If there is a lack of music or the music chosen does not match the situation then the whole atmosphere of the game can be thrown off. Due to this, there are soundtracks that are instantly recognizable such as the soundtracks in Pokemon games, which has many fans around the world. The music was able to develop feelings of success, suspense, and even sad emotions as the music is played throughout various circumstances in the game. As the article also describes, music nowadays is still used within games with the purpose of making the players feel whatever the developers want whether this be adrenaline, suspense, or joy, Furthermore, each game has its own specific sound as a horror game that wants to induce fear and suspense would not have the same music as Pokemon which can be described as uplifting and playful.
Here is an NPR interview that gives more information on the evolution of video game music – https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
The article speaks of how music plays a role in videogames, movies, tv, and so much more. Music helps the play , viewer or who ever it may be get more into the task they are doing. The music in videogames have evolved over time (as an active player I know this) this has changed the way games are played and view. In some cases a simple song can take anyone to one of their favorite moments in tv, videogames, or even life moment. The video game industry are getting better music and some songs made just for the game I find that amazing and I am glad videogames and music are going hand to hand.
This is the report IGN (videogame report site) put out the play list of GTA 5 with what radio station you can the songs. I love this game and the music also they add more songs over time.
https://www.ign.com/wikis/gta-5/Soundtrack_and_Radio
Ever Since I was a kid I have always love video game music, and video games are what got me into music in the first place. This article expands on the fact that music plays a crucial role in video games. Whether it is just mere background noise or intense boss level music, it all enhances the game. Games like World of Warcraft and Halo have very dark orchestral music that fits the atmosphere of the games, while Minecraft comes with very peaceful, relaxing music to fit the natural world that the player lives in. As time went on the simple MIDI tunes evolved into metal music and orchestra scores in video games, and even real songs in some cases, like Grand Theft Auto. Here is an article on the evolution of video game music.
https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
Very interesting article, it’s so cool how far the music for video games has come. In recent video games, (especially horror ones) the music allows you to be so immersive. Amazingly, it sounds like something you’d hear in movie!
Here’s a site showing some of the best video game soundtracks of all time: https://www.gamesradar.com/the-25-greatest-video-game-soundtracks-of-all-time/
The thing that struck me about this article was that it recognized the reason why we may feel nostalgic after we hear a certain piece of music. It explains that music has been helpful in creating an ambiance that goes well with what the player is experiencing in the game, something commonly known as a dynamic soundtrack. The writer also gives insight on how these sounds symbolize what might happen next in the game: harsh, masculine drum sounds might signal that a player is about to be attacked or a calming violin melody may be played the moment a player is atop a mountain, enjoying the view. I personally am not a gamer, but if I were, I would definitely take the music more seriously as it could potentially help me win the game.
Here is a link that breaks down the 20 best video soundtracks of all time.
https://entertainment.ie/gaming/the-20-best-video-game-soundtracks-of-all-time-277218/
Videos Games Have been growing ever since the very first one surfaced, and music has been there right along-side them. It is amazing how they even mimic films in that they go along with the actions of the audience/Player.
Here is an interesting Video game history timeline:
https://www.museumofplay.org/about/icheg/video-game-history/timeline
I loved reading this article because of the waves of nostalgia that hit me, especially when I listened to the Pokémon music that appears when you’re about to fight. This article really emphasizes how important music is in video games. Music in video games have the power to set the mood for the players and is an essential part to reaching to the emotional appeal of each player.
I found a great article that talks about Koji Kondo who created the music for Super Mario. He was influenced by the old arcade games and their futuristic sounds. https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/how-video-games-changed-popular-music
It’s interesting how this article mentions the evolution of videogames along with its soundtrack. From simple beeps and boops to actual scores and full songs. Today, music allows the gamer to immerse themselves in the world through emotional storytelling. Listening to a song outside a videogame triggers the memories associated with that song and experiences within the video game. Music drives the story of a videogame that can be remembered by a single hum or beat.
Heres another article that goes in-depth about music in storytelling videogames. https://lwos.life/2017/12/28/importance-music-video-games/
I had no idea that video games would have their own genre such as “chiptune.” I’m not very surprised because it is such a booming business. But the music they use really adds on to the adventure of the game. This is an article with some of the most iconic video game songs https://www.cnet.com/pictures/best-video-game-songs-of-all-time/
Obviously, music inside a video game is very important. It is what distinguishes the game. In my opinion, music is what takes me to another place. Shouldn’t video games do that as well? Music is an important additive to the games because it takes you to wherever the game’s theme is. For example, Grand Theft Auto even has its own radio station. It honestly brings you inside the screen and puts you in the scene.
Here is a link to a list of the radio stations in GTA V: https://gta-songs.fandom.com/wiki/Category:Radio_Stations_in_GTA_V
One really important subject that i liked that the article talked about is the importance to creating a feel for the game when making the background music for a video game. I appreciated the examples like the game “Last of Us” when it showed the importance of immersion and how something like a simple guitar in the background can make all the difference in emotion. I also enjoyed how in-depth it went into what exactly is important when making a video game soundtrack from games as playful as Mario, to games as deep as Last of Us.
here is a link to an article discussing the making of one of my favorite games, Skyrim: http://www.originalsoundversion.com/dragonborn-the-elder-scrolls-v-skyrim-original-game-soundtrack-review/
The article was insightful in regards to the importance of music in video games. I admire how without music, the video game would be lifeless and dull, therefore music enhances the quality of the game, adds to the climax, and creates a keen memory for people, especially classic games where it adds a nostalgic effect. I liked the part of the article where the writer phrased music as “a way to directly communicate information in an artistic way”, because not only does it enhance the game, but it lets players know when something’s approaching such as a boss, etc. Here is a link I found about techniques people use to make video game music.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07494460802663983
I think the music in video games is something that is often overlooked. However, like the author of this article mentioned, the background music can truly make or break a scene in a video game. Games that were created to be scary wouldn’t have the same effect on the audience if they didn’t have the creepy background music to help pull the audience in. Music can have such a powerful effect on the emotions of the audience, and it has evolved a lot in recent video games.
Here is an article about how video games are helping the music industry:
https://www.theguardian.com/games/2018/aug/22/video-games-music-industry
I love this article because this is exactly the field I want to go into! Reading about it in action as a means to develop atmosphere and convey information. Going beyond common practice composing, videogame sound tracking creates an atmosphere that allows a player to fully immerse themselves in the virtual world. Music in video and arcade games has come so far in the last 40 years, it’s easy to forget the very simple beginnings of these tunes. Here is an article on the history of music in video games: https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
I have always wondered about music in video games and the people behind the scenes the making of that music we play in our games. Music definitely plays a huge part in making video game magic. It creates a sense of imagination for the player like they are actually in the game itself. In my personal experience growing up and playing the Gameboy hearing the chime when it first comes on gives me nostalgia, for a much simpler time.
Here is another helpful article about why music in video exsit:
https://www.anarapublishing.com/the-importance-of-music-in-video-games/
As someone who has played their fair share of video games since early childhood, I find this article accurate in regards to how the right soundtrack can enhance a game to its full potential. One of my favorite soundtracks from a video game was from 007 Golden Eye on the Nintendo 64. This spy-thriller soundtrack made your heart race as you navigated various level as international spy James Bond. Below I have attached the soundtrack for this game, it’s worth listening to without the levels in my opinion.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFC753E037241DF4D
Video games are my life. I have played many games and listened to many musical backgrounds during the games. With the evolution of the games, better pictures, better storylines, better musical enhancements, this article was very interesting to me and I related to it very well. It is true in the part that talks about the immersion of the player with the music, depending on what is going on in the game at that point. There is some music that enhances the feelings in the player to alert them something is coming, or danger is around or like with simpler games for the young at heart, the music is soothing or relaxing. When playing games, we don’t think about the people that created the music and how they have to come up with that effect to draw the player in to continue to play the game. Music is a big part of what intrigues me in these video games and the effectiveness of that music is what urges the player on.
https://www.thefourohfive.com/music/article/the-evolution-of-music-in-video-games-139
I feel as if video game music is greatly underappreciated. Music can make the player feel like they are in the video game. For example, when I was swinging around NYC in the Spider-Man PS4 game, the background music along with the rumbling of the controller made me feel as if I was actually in the game. Here’s a link to the music for the game.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAZO7oFOg5k
Role with music in gaming is such a powerful thing. Music is like a signal that alarming the brain of that specific memories of that moment. One of the example is Mario gaming with that music, when ever that music play it reminds me of little guys with red hat running jumping and eat shroom to get big. Music is such a powerful thing in gaming because it bring colors and lights and emotions into the game. When you music play it give you some sort of feeling at a certain time. Like you can’t fight the big boss in the game with slow below music, an upbeat music would be more hyper and challenging and give your mind a more competitive mode.
Here is the link that helps describe how music have a role in gaming
https://www.headstuff.org/entertainment/gaming/music-in-the-key-of-gaming-the-effect-of-music-in-games/
This article proves yet again the power of music and its effects on individuals. For such a long time video games, either playing or working for, have been widely regarded as wastes of time. The industry has since exploded and we know that it’s a hotbed for career opportunities, especially within music and recording. I liked how this article made everything so relatable and was obviously written by someone who games and still appreciates the music, even detailing the nostalgia when booting up a PlayStation.
Though it’s informal and super subjective, this list includes many of the scores mentioned in the article.
https://www.ranker.com/list/best-video-game-music-soundtracks/ranker-games
“The Role of Music in Video Games” gave me a very different perspective on music’s power in every single thing. For someone who is not naturally a fan of video games, I can appreciate the growth in the music industry behind digital gaming from the 60’s up until this current day. Music has improved from beep bop sounds from games like Legend of Zelda and Mario Cart to filling orchestral symphonies during the climax of your favorite game. This leads me to think that the music itself has changed to become more complex and able, but do the memories attached to those nostalgic moments when hearing that music play change?
This article attached below dives into the ideas of emotion, nostalgia, and setting.
https://www.anarapublishing.com/the-importance-of-music-in-video-games/
As someone like myself who has grown up with many fond memories of playing video games, the soundtracks to these games is a very iconic and important part of my life and aspect to what makes these video games so great. I still listen to certain soundtracks to games on my free time cause they hold such a special place in my heart. The atmosphere and tone of the game is highly dependent on the soundtrack and they wouldn’t be what they are without it. Here’s a link regarding more on soundtracks: https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89565567
I found the aricle’s look into how the music industry has been shaped by the video game industry, and vice versa. I have linked to a performance of music in video games throughout the decades.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OeBG0QIRNtY