Video Game History
TRUE or FALSE: The video game industry has recently experienced record-breaking years.
True
What was historic about the game Pong? What did it have and not have?
The first game to have true sound effects (but no actual music)
What does “Chiptune” music mean?
Music that was electronic and synthesized on computer chips (“chiptune” is now a nickname used for music that sounds like ‘older’ classic video games)
Where and when did video games first begin?
Arcades during the 1970's
Why did Arcades originally not like the process of using sound in video games?
Sound was primarily stored on analog cassette tapes (which were expensive and could easily break)
Why is music from older games very memorable?
‘Older’ music had to be melody-focused due to the limitations of music for home consoles
TRUE or FALSE: The earliest arcade video games had no sound at all.
True
How did the game Pac-Man use music and sound effects?
Initially, music was primarily used in the game’s title sequence to lure players to start playing. However, once the gameplay began, the music dropped out and only sound effects remained.
How many music notes could 8-bit music play at one time?
Up to three notes at one time
When did home consoles first come onto the market? Why were they popular?
The late 1970s and early 1980s. Now gamers could play in the quiet privacy of their own living rooms instead of a noisy crowded Arcade.
Why was the game Space Invaders groundbreaking in its use of music?
The first video game to have consistent music throughout and to have music that responded to player’s actions
What is thematic music? How do Mario games show this concept?
Music changes depending on the specific themes of the visuals
What were some limitations of music for home console video games?
What is “adaptive” / “dynamic” music?
Music that responds to players’ actions
How have technological advances impacted music in modern-day video games?
Video game music can now be scored in very similar ways as movies; video game music can be much more elaborated and extremely dynamic (such as using large orchestras), just like a film score