Video Game Audio: A History, 1972-2020

This book explores the historical trends in video game sound and music, evaluating the audio capabilities of various game systems and the industry competition. It covers technical fine points such as synthesized v. sampled sound, pre-recorded v. dynamic audio, backward compatibility, and analog v. digital outputs. A timeline chronicles significant developments in game sound for PC, NES, Dreamcast, Xbox, Wii, Game Boy, PSP, iOS, and Android devices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

From the nostalgic one-bit beeps of Pong to the immersive 3D audio of PlayStation 5, this comprehensive book delves into the captivating evolution of video game sound and music. It explores the diverse range of game systems available in North America, Europe, and Japan, assessing their audio capabilities and the fierce competition within the industry. The text delves into intricate technical details, covering topics such as synthesized versus sampled sound, pre-recorded versus dynamic audio, backward compatibility, discrete and multifunctional soundchips, storage media, audio programming documentation, and analog versus digital outputs. A chronological timeline highlights significant advancements in video game sound across various platforms, including personal computers (PC), Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Dreamcast, Xbox, Wii, Game Boy, PlayStation Portable (PSP), iOS, and Android devices. Each era is meticulously examined, shedding light on the innovative technologies, creative approaches, and artistic achievements that have shaped the audio landscape of video games. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a music enthusiast, this book offers a fascinating journey through the rich history of video game sound, providing insights into the creative processes, technological advancements, and cultural impact that have defined this dynamic medium.

From the nostalgic one-bit beeps of Pong to the immersive 3D audio of PlayStation 5, this comprehensive book delves into the captivating evolution of video game sound and music.

It explores the diverse range of game systems available in North America, Europe, and Japan, assessing their audio capabilities and the fierce competition within the industry.

The text delves into intricate technical details, covering topics such as synthesized versus sampled sound, pre-recorded versus dynamic audio, backward compatibility, discrete and multifunctional soundchips, storage media, audio programming documentation, and analog versus digital outputs.

A chronological timeline highlights significant advancements in video game sound across various platforms, including personal computers (PC), Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Dreamcast, Xbox, Wii, Game Boy, PlayStation Portable (PSP), iOS, and Android devices.

Each era is meticulously examined, shedding light on the innovative technologies, creative approaches, and artistic achievements that have shaped the audio landscape of video games.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a music enthusiast, this book offers a fascinating journey through the rich history of video game sound, providing insights into the creative processes, technological advancements, and cultural impact that have defined this dynamic medium.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476674353