Utilize Music to Enhance the Atmosphere Effectively
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General Atmosphere of Your Game
Draw inspiration from early concept art when composing music. It is essential that the music aligns with the chosen theme, supports the overall atmosphere of the game, and effectively evokes the intended emotions. Consider the following examples, where music significantly contributes to the game’s emotional ambiance:
- Despair.
In This War of Mine, a group of civilians struggles to survive in a world where food is scarce and constant danger surrounds them. The music complements this narrative by evoking a deep sense of despair.
Credit: 11 bit studios S.A.. Footage captured by the author.
- Joy.
In Supraland, the player explores a child’s sandbox while solving a variety of puzzles. The accompanying music reinforces this experience by evoking joy and playfulness.
Credit: Supra Games. Footage captured by the author.
Create a Specific Atmosphere for a Given Location
Music can also be used to evoke the appropriate emotions associated with specific locations within the game world. However, it is crucial to maintain consistency in the overall atmosphere. Therefore, location-specific music should harmonize with the musical themes of other areas.
In Supraland, the music changes as the player explores different areas, yet all musical variations contribute to the game’s cohesive tone.
Credit: Supra Games. Footage captured by the author.
Consider the Following Contrasts:
Anxiety vs. Excitement
Example:
When the player navigates a maze, a tunnel network, or other confined and dimly lit spaces, the music creates a sense of anxiety. Upon exiting these environments, the music transitions to a more joyful tone, enhancing the player’s sense of relief and excitement.
Pessimism vs. Hope
Example:
When the player is situated in areas filled with danger, the music evokes a feeling of pessimism. Once the player reaches a safe zone, the musical tone becomes more uplifting and hopeful.
Satisfaction
Example:
When the player receives a new reward—such as gaining access to a new level—a short musical cue expresses the joy and satisfaction of this achievement.
Example:
Relaxing music is used in moments when the player is not under time pressure but must wait to proceed to the next level.
In Tacoma, as players ride elevators to other levels, calming music plays to enhance the experience of waiting.
Credit: The Fullbright Company. Footage captured by the author.
Uneasiness
A sense of unease can be effectively conveyed by altering audio clarity.
Example:
When the player’s camera is above water, the music plays clearly; however, as the player submerges, the sound becomes muffled, reinforcing the immersive underwater atmosphere.
Change the Atmosphere According to the Time of Day
To evoke different emotional responses depending on the time of day within the game, utilize musical compositions with distinct characteristics:
Daytime
Cheerful and upbeat.
Energetic.
Loud.
High dynamic range.
Nighttime
Somber and subdued.
Slow tempo.
Calm ambiance.
Low dynamic range.
Change the Atmosphere Based on Events and Player Actions
Music can also reflect real-time events and player behaviors within the game. For instance:
- Drama.
In Sniper Elite 4, the music becomes more dramatic when the player alerts the enemy. Once the immediate threat is resolved, the music transitions to a calmer tone.
Credit: Rebellion Developments. Footage captured by the author.
Excitement
Examples:
Music becomes increasingly dynamic as the player approaches victory.
Highly dynamic compositions are triggered when the player discovers a new location, weapon, or valuable item.
Tension builds musically as the player nears their objective.
The tempo and intensity of the music increase with the player’s movement speed—such as when driving a vehicle—and decrease as the player slows down.
After all enemies are defeated, the music shifts to a joyful and celebratory tone.
Hope
Examples:
The music evokes hope when the player is on the verge of achieving a long-anticipated goal.
It also intensifies positively when the player is about to complete a difficult task.
Pessimism
Example:
Music adopts a somber tone during unpleasant events, such as when a friendly character is in imminent danger of being killed.