Sonic Design // Final Project
08.11.23 - 15.12.23 (Week 11 - Week 16)
Emelyne How Sok Hing (0352938)
Bachelor of Design (Hons) Creative Media
Sonic Design // Final Project
Lectures
Week 11:
Game Audio
We were briefed on the process of recording to editing audios for a video/game. In the storyboard, we need to include music, SFX and audio description.
Instructions
Week 12:
Final Project
For this final project, we are tasked to choose 1 out of 5 gameplay videos given and create our own sounds to sync to the video. Our task is to create the sound and bring the game to life. We need to plan and organize our studio recording session for Foley and voice recording. Additionally, we are to have access to the portable recorder if needed.
Audio list and storyboard
Based on the different choices that we had from the list provided to us, I chose to do the audio for the game 'BattleBlock Theatre'.
After watching the video, I listed out the sets of audio needed as required and also did the storyboard required.
Audio List
For reference I watched this existing video of the game and tried to take note of the sounds here as well.
Link of reference video:
Link of audio list:
Link of audio storyboard:
Week 13 -16:
Process
During the recording session, my group consisted of three members, and we collaborated to help each other with the tracks in the audio recording room. I brought a variety of items based on my list. While recording the sound of objects, I experimented with different speeds and intensities. When it came to voice recording, I was too shy, so I asked two classmates from my group to do it for me, with the lecturer's permission. They kindly assisted in recording the voice sounds I needed. Afterward, I selected and edited the recorded audio, trimming and refining it as necessary.
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| Figure 1.0 Progress, 12th December 2023 |
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| Figure 1.1 Progress, 12th December 2023 |
After checking the original video, I noticed they didn't include sound for the character's walking or running. Since I had difficulties eliminating the noise of my clothes rubbing together in my walking recordings, I decided to focus on adding other sounds instead.
I began by editing other sounds, such as the rainbow SFX and the gems collection sound for the main character. Initially, I faced challenges in finding a suitable audio that matched the game's mood. After persistent effort, I eventually created a more satisfactory version.
I used EQ at first and then I used pitch shift. After that, I employed Phaser for modulation effects. Since one sound wasn't enough, I generated a tone from the modified sound and experimented with variations. Additionally, I added a touch of reverb for spatial enhancement.
Since I thought that something was still lacking, I implemented a teleport effect using another sound. I generated another tone and experimented with flanger, phaser, and reverb effects.
In the end, I added fade in and fade out.
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| Figure 1.4 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
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| Figure 1.5 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
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| Figure 1.6 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
Creating the teleport sound was quite a challenge as I aimed for a balance between a gentle tone and a teleport-like quality. Although it turned out slightly harsher than intended, I ran out of time, so this would do for now.
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| Figure 1.7 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
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| Figure 1.8 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
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| Figure 1.9 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
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| Figure 2.0 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
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| Figure 2.1 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
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| Figure 2.2 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
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| Figure 2.3 Progress, 15th December 2023 |
For additional information about the sounds I selected for the audio journal, please refer to the link provided below. :)
Week 16:
Final Game Audio Project
Link to Audio Journal:
Link to final video:
This final project was quite a rollercoaster. I faced challenges experimenting with a variety of sound effects, and the absence of relevant YouTube tutorials added to the difficulty. Navigating the tone generator was confusing, given my limited knowledge of melodies and sound. Some sound effects turned out as planned, others didn't, but I'm just glad I managed to finish it.
Figure 2.4 Final Project, 15th December 2023
Reflections
Week 11 - 16:
To be honest, sonic design isn't my thing, and I doubt it ever will be. Even though the subject is interesting, working with sounds, listening, and editing just doesn't click for me. The final project was particularly challenging because finding the right editing and filters for the desired sound effect wasn't easy. I understand that this subject involves a lot of experimentation, but there were times I felt lost, unsure if things were right or wrong. It demands focus and fine-tuning. Despite the challenges, learning to edit sound for clarity was a valuable experience. The techniques can be handy for future projects, but mastering them is no small feat, in my opinion.
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