#003 Music Composing - Gareth Coker

games industry insights - devcom podcast

Right from the outset, music has been a vital part of video games. From chiptunes to the first orchestral recording, music has always enhanced the entire feel of games. A soundtrack can make the difference between a good game and an epic experience. In this episode of "devcom podcast", our hosts Lars Janssen and Nico Balletta welcome composer Gareth Coker. He is well known for his scores for Ori and the Blind Forest and Ori and the Will of the Wisps.

Gareth gives us some insights into the work of a composer of video games music. How does it compare to composing a movie soundtrack? How important is it for the composer to play the game, and how do indie studios benefit from early engagement of an audio specialist?

Content:

• 00:00:00 Welcome
• 00:00:59 Introduction Gareth Coker
• 00:05:04 How does a videogame composer work
• 00:10:02 Get the composer to your project
• 00:18:12 Is it neccessary to play the game
• 00:23:20 Working with Indies
• 00:32:15 Creating memorable moments
• 01:02:20 Finding the right tone
• 01:08:40 Personal favorite moments in videogames
• 01:13:30 How does a pandemic change the view on working
• 01:19:07 Creating diversity
• 01:29:25 Getting Inspiration
• 01:38:15 The personal signature
• 01:41:02 Goodbye