The Early Days of Music in Video Games
Before we delve into the specifics of which game was the first to incorporate music, it is important to understand the early days of music in video games. The first known instance of music in a video game dates back to 1972 when the game Pong introduced background music composed by Brian Bellmont and Jerry Goldsmith. However, this music was not tied directly to the gameplay, but rather served as an ambient soundtrack for players.
The introduction of music into video games was largely influenced by the growing popularity of arcade games in the 1970s and 80s. These games often featured background music that helped to create a more immersive experience for players. One such game, Space Invaders, introduced a unique type of music called “electronic dance music” (EDM) that became popular among gamers and paved the way for future uses of music in video games.
The First Game to Feature Music Tied Directly to Gameplay
While Pong’s background music was an important milestone in the history of music in video games, it was not until 1980 that a game truly tied music directly to gameplay. This game was called “Space Invaders II,” and it introduced a new type of music called “chip music.” Chip music was created using specialized computer hardware called “sound chips” that allowed composers to create unique sounds and melodies with minimal resources.
In Space Invaders II, the music was composed by Tomohiro Nishikado, who also served as the game’s programmer. The music was designed to complement the gameplay, with different tracks playing depending on the level or the type of enemy encountered. This use of music tied directly to gameplay paved the way for future games that would incorporate music in a more sophisticated and nuanced way.
The Impact of Music on Video Games
Music has had a significant impact on video games, both in terms of gameplay and player experience. Incorporating music into a game can help to create a sense of immersion and engagement for players, as well as add an extra layer of depth and meaning to the game’s narrative. Additionally, music can be used to manipulate the player’s emotions, such as creating tension or excitement during key moments in the game.
One example of the impact of music on video games is the use of “diegetic” music, which refers to music that is heard by the characters within the game world. In the game Uncharted, for instance, diegetic music is used to create a sense of tension and danger during key moments in the story. The use of diegetic music helps to draw players into the game’s narrative and makes them feel like they are part of the action.
Another example of the impact of music on video games is the use of “non-diegetic” music, which refers to music that is not heard by the characters within the game world but is instead composed specifically for the game. In the game The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, non-diegetic music was used to create a sense of wonder and mystery during key moments in the game’s story. The use of non-diegetic music helped to establish the game’s unique atmosphere and set it apart from other adventure games of its time.
The Future of Music in Video Games
As video games continue to evolve, so too will their ability to incorporate music into their gameplay.
