What is Game Background Music Called?

The term most commonly used for game background music is game music or video game music (VGM). However, it can also be referred to as game soundtracks, game scores, or simply in-game music. These terms generally encompass all the musical elements within a game, including background music, jingles, and theme songs.

The Evolution of Game Music Terminology

Initially, game music was heavily constrained by technological limitations, often resulting in simple chiptune melodies. As technology advanced, so did the complexity and sophistication of game music. This evolution has led to a wider range of terms being used to describe it, reflecting the diverse styles and genres now found in video games.

From Chiptunes to Orchestral Scores

Early game music was primarily created using sound chips within gaming consoles and arcade machines. These chips produced distinctive 8-bit sounds, often referred to as chiptunes or 8-bit music. Composers worked within these limitations to create memorable and iconic themes.

As gaming technology evolved, so did the tools available to composers. MIDI technology allowed for more complex arrangements and the use of synthesized sounds. Later, advancements in digital audio workstations (DAWs) and recording technology enabled the creation of orchestral scores and other high-fidelity musical pieces.

Current Usage

Today, game music remains the most general and widely accepted term. Video game music is equally common, often preferred in academic or formal contexts. Game soundtrack is used to refer to the collection of music from a specific game, often released commercially. Game score is a more formal term, often used to emphasize the compositional and artistic merit of the music.

Genres and Styles in Game Music

Game music encompasses a wide range of genres and styles, often tailored to the specific game’s setting, story, and gameplay.

Common Genres

• Orchestral: Used frequently in RPGs, adventure games, and epic storylines to create a grand and immersive atmosphere.
• Electronic: Popular in action games, racing games, and futuristic settings, often employing synthesizers, drum machines, and electronic effects.
• Chiptune: While less common in modern AAA titles, chiptune is still popular in indie games, retro-inspired games, and remixes.
• Rock/Metal: Often found in action games, fighting games, and titles with a rebellious or high-energy theme.
• Ambient: Used to create atmosphere and tension, often found in horror games, puzzle games, and exploration-based titles.
• World Music: Incorporates instruments and musical styles from various cultures to enhance the game’s setting and narrative.

Adaptability and Interactivity

One of the defining characteristics of game music is its adaptability and interactivity. Music often changes dynamically based on the player’s actions, the in-game environment, and the progression of the story. This requires composers to create music that can seamlessly transition between different sections, loop effectively, and react to real-time events.

The Role of Game Music Composers

Game music composers play a crucial role in shaping the player’s experience. They work closely with game developers to understand the game’s vision and create music that complements and enhances the gameplay. This often involves:

• Understanding the game’s narrative and setting.
• Collaborating with designers and artists to create a cohesive aesthetic.
• Composing music that is both engaging and unobtrusive.
• Implementing the music into the game using audio middleware.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Game Music

FAQ 1: What is the difference between a game soundtrack and a game score?

A game soundtrack typically refers to the collection of music from a game, often released for purchase. A game score is a more formal term that emphasizes the artistic and compositional value of the music itself, similar to a film score. While the terms are often used interchangeably, “score” implies a more scholarly or artistic appreciation of the music.

FAQ 2: What software do game music composers use?

Game music composers use a variety of software tools, including Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, Cubase, and Pro Tools. They also use virtual instruments, sample libraries, and audio editing software. Audio middleware like FMOD and Wwise are essential for implementing music into the game engine.

FAQ 3: How is game music implemented into a video game?

Game music is typically implemented using audio middleware such as FMOD or Wwise. These tools allow developers to create complex audio behaviors, such as dynamic music changes based on player actions, environmental effects, and seamless looping. The middleware acts as a bridge between the music assets and the game engine.

FAQ 4: What is dynamic music in video games?

Dynamic music refers to music that changes in real-time based on the player’s actions, the in-game environment, or the progression of the story. This can involve transitioning between different musical sections, adding or removing layers of instruments, or adjusting the tempo and intensity of the music. Dynamic music enhances immersion and creates a more engaging gameplay experience.

FAQ 5: How do game composers create interactive music?

Interactive music is created by composing music in sections or layers that can be dynamically combined and triggered based on game events. Composers use audio middleware to define these interactions, allowing the music to respond to the player’s actions in a meaningful way. This might involve creating different versions of a track for different situations, such as combat or exploration.

FAQ 6: What are some famous examples of game music?

Some famous examples of game music include:

• The Legend of Zelda series (Koji Kondo)
• Super Mario Bros. series (Koji Kondo)
• Final Fantasy series (Nobuo Uematsu)
• The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Jeremy Soule)
• Halo series (Martin O’Donnell and Michael Salvatori)
• DOOM (Mick Gordon)
• Undertale (Toby Fox)

FAQ 7: What are some common techniques used in game music composition?

Common techniques include: Looping, to create continuous background music; Layering, to add depth and complexity; Dynamic transitions, to create seamless changes in response to gameplay; Motifs, to create thematic consistency; and Tempo and key changes, to create emotional impact.

FAQ 8: How do I become a game music composer?

Becoming a game music composer requires a strong musical background, knowledge of music production software, and a portfolio of game-ready music. Networking with game developers and participating in game jams can help you gain experience and build connections. Familiarize yourself with audio middleware and game development processes.

FAQ 9: What is adaptive music in video games?

Adaptive music is similar to dynamic music, but it emphasizes the music’s ability to adapt to the specific circumstances of the game. This could involve changing the instrumentation, arrangement, or even the melody to match the player’s emotional state or the tone of the scene. The goal is to create music that feels organically connected to the game world.

FAQ 10: Are there any dedicated awards for game music?

Yes, there are several awards that recognize excellence in game music, including the Game Audio Network Guild (G.A.N.G.) Awards, the British Academy Games Awards (BAFTA Games Awards), and the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences (AIAS) D.I.C.E. Awards. These awards highlight the importance of music in the gaming industry and celebrate the talent of game music composers.

FAQ 11: What is the difference between linear and non-linear music in games?

Linear music is music that plays in a predetermined order, similar to a traditional song. Non-linear music is music that changes based on player actions and game events, creating a more interactive and dynamic experience. Most games use a combination of linear and non-linear music techniques.

FAQ 12: How important is it to understand game development when composing game music?

Understanding game development is crucial for composing effective game music. Knowing how games are designed and how music is implemented can help you create music that seamlessly integrates into the game world and enhances the player experience. Familiarity with game engines and audio middleware is essential.

FAQ 13: What are some resources for learning about game music composition?

There are many online resources for learning about game music composition, including online courses, tutorials, and communities. Websites like GameSoundCon, School of Video Game Audio, and Composing for Games offer valuable insights and resources for aspiring game music composers. Books and articles on music theory, orchestration, and sound design can also be helpful.

FAQ 14: Is there a specific style of music that is best suited for video games?

There is no single style of music that is best suited for video games. The appropriate style depends on the genre, setting, and tone of the game. Orchestral music is often used in fantasy and adventure games, while electronic music is common in sci-fi and action games. Ultimately, the best style of music is the one that best complements the game’s overall vision.

FAQ 15: How do copyright and licensing work for game music?

Copyright and licensing for game music can be complex. If you are using music created by someone else, you need to obtain the necessary licenses. If you are composing music for a game, you will typically retain the copyright to your music, but you may grant the game developer a license to use it in their game. It’s important to consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and obligations.