writing video game music

anton

New member
Hi All,

I have recently been thinking about trying to write some short video game type themes. It seems like something that would be fun, plus i am always up for learning new things. I stumbled upon this guy's site and liked what i heard.

http://www.hmack.pearlmagik.com/


Thing is, i have no idea about the process involved. Most of my recording experience is with acoustic guitar, recording solo arrangements and small ensembles.

Assuming all the instruments from the example above are virtual, how does one go about doing something like that? Do i need just a usb controller keyboard, http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Oxygen8v2/ plus some software and virtual instrument plug ins to get started?

Any info appreciated, it would nice to get into this on the cheap just to see if it appeals to me.




anton
 
Here are my software and softsynth recommendations.

Software --- Reaper.

Softsynths --- KVR Audio.

I recommend you start with the many free softsynths and soft effects that are available to get a feel for using them before spending any money.

Free recommended softsynths include RGC Audio's Triangle II, anything by Ugo like Motion and Rez, Synth1, ProtoPlasm, Green Oak's Crystal, MiniMogue, and Arppe2600va. And that just the start.

Free recommended effects include the entire Klaerhus Classic series, Luxinox LFX-1310, anything by Slim Slow Slider and many more.

.
 
I agree with ssscientist on waiting to drop the coin until you've tinkered a bit...

Listening to the link you sent though, I would say he's using Reason.

Check www.propellerheads.de for more info on that.

6
 
Also download the demo versions of Cakewalk Project 5 & Abelton Live.
These are loop based sequencers, as opposed to something like Reaper which is more of a traditional 'sequential' sequencer.
I think loops would probably be more appropriate for video game music
 
It's also common to write down the song in a transcription software. This software can convert the song to MIDI format. Most people who write computer games keep it in this format.

That's why old computer game's music sound computerized.

A good free editor is called PowerTab - http://www.power-tab.net

Or you could also consider getting Guitar Pro - http://www.guitar-pro.com

You can tab out the whole song and convert to MIDI.

From there, you can run the MIDI files through a VSTi (or Reason) and render it as a WAV.
 
Thanks guys, that is good stuff. I will start experimenting with some demo software to see how it goes. I have also been scoring some stuff out, so lets see if i can get a good midi representation.


anton
 
If you did want that classic basic MIDI sound (and the nice tiny files it creates), I recommend "Noteworthy Composer".
 
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