By Mitch Rice
The music of video games has long been an art form of its own. The bleeps and bloops of chiptunes from decades past have since made way for full orchestral soundtracks. Who’d have thought there’d be Mario games with real instrument OSTs back in the day? Regardless of in-game music, the relationship between gamers and audio entertainment goes back a long way.
But why do so many gamers enjoy listening to music while they play? Is this a phenomenon we can explain with science, or is it just an individual decision? Let’s dive in.
Music is motivating
Whether you’re into your death metal or your mariachi, all kinds of music inspire all sorts of people. The fact is, while video game OSTs are designed to motivate and inspire, ‘motivation’ is a relative concept.
For example, some gamers may prefer to play the greatest hits of Iron Maiden while playing Animal Crossing, as it helps them focus. Others may enjoy a touch of smooth jazz while playing online real money slots.
As it stands, you don’t have to listen to in-game music unless you want to. If you find your old LPs help you get into the zone easier than the default OST, crank down the volume on your TV or PC, and stream or spin away.
Pace is everything
Depending on the games you play, the pace can often dictate performance. For example, high-octane racing, fighting, and FPS games may benefit from rockier sounds. Or you may lean into EDM or techno for a heart-thumping soundtrack that spurs you on to hit those high scores.
The same works the other way around. Gentle platform, RPG games, and casual titles benefit from low-tempo soundtracks. Again, nothing is stopping you from tuning into classical music or something low-fi to ease you into a slower pace.
If you love puzzle games, you may benefit from slower-paced or gentler music to help you concentrate. However, many of these games, such as the many adaptations of Tetris over the years, arrive with fast-paced, super-tense soundtracks that can get a little too frantic as time burns on.
Music is part of the experience
Any gamers that really get into the fun will likely have their own ‘experiences’ that they like to create. That may mean sticking to in-game OSTs and sound effects or creating their own soundscapes as they play. Regardless, the visual and gameplay appeal of titles is only part of the overall fun.
Many gamers like to replay certain levels because they love the music – or, in some cases, the soundtrack may be the best part of the experience! In any case, video game music is now an art form all on its own, with many people choosing to listen to it outside of the games for motivation when working.
Music and gaming are intrinsically linked – and while we may all approach the partnership a little differently, it’s safe to say that without music, even the most visually stunning of games will only appeal so much.
