Prerequisites

Students must be proficient with a professional-level DAW and sequencer of their choice (Digital Performer, Logic, SONAR, GarageBand, etc.), including the ability to record individual tracks, trace signal flow, complete a basic mix, route to and from effects and software instruments, and integrate any relevant MIDI gear as required. Students must have an advanced knowledge of MIDI sequencing, with the ability to edit pre-existing information. Students must also have an understanding of music theory and harmony, and be prepared to compose music and sound design elements in an appropriate genre for their game project. Knowledge of dramatic scoring techniques is suggested. Students should also be active as a casual gamer in some part of the industry whether it be console, computer, cell phone, or Web/Flash-based games.

Textbook(s)

This is an excellent, entry-level book focused on providing a solid understanding of the foundations of game audio and music. This book takes you through the basics and provides an invaluable set of interviews of game audio professionals as context for the presented concepts.

Software Requirements

• PC Web browser: Firefox 3.0 or higher, Internet Explorer 7 or higher
• Macintosh Web browser: Firefox 3.0 or higher, Safari 3.0 or higher
• Flash Player: current version
• QuickTime Player: current version
• A digital audio workstation (DAW) capable of multi-channel sound playback is required for this course. The DAW must support MIDI sequencing, integrated QuickTime movie playback, and allow for manipulation of 8+ tracks of audio as well as allow for output to 2-channel stereo mixes for class discussion. Examples would include Pro Tools, SONAR, Apple Logic, Digital Performer, Vegas, and GarageBand 10 or later. Check to see if the version of the DAW you have meets the above requirements.
• A MIDI sequencer is required.
• Assets will be provided in broadcast WAV file format, QuickTime movies, and as proprietary formats specific to the course.
• We will also be using Unity 3D, a cross-platform game development engine for sound and music integration exercises. Download and install the version that matches your computer platform from the link below. It would be helpful to become familiar with the software and its user manual before the course starts.
• You will need a utility to bring your audio files into Unity 3D in Ogg Vorbis format. A free, open source, audio recording and editing tool that can also convert your files to Ogg is Audacity. It is available for both Windows and Mac.

Unity 3D can be found at http://unity3d.com/

Audacity can be found at http://audacity.sourceforge.net/

Hardware Requirements: PC Users

• Windows XP, Vista or 7
• 1 GB RAM
• 1 GB hard drive space recommended
• Sound card
• CD-ROM drive
• Speakers or headphones for your computer

Hardware Requirements: Mac Users

• Mac OS X 10.5 or higher
• Intel Mac
• 1 GB RAM
• 1 GB hard drive space recommended
• CD-ROM drive
• Speakers or headphones for your computer

Hardware Requirements: All Users

• A microphone will be necessary for recording your own custom sound effects. An example of a suitable microphone would be a Shure SM57. You will need a means of recording with the microphone in various locations, either through a cable directly to your computer or by using a portable recorder.
• A MIDI controller is recommended to complete the music composition portions of the class.

• Yes, I'm ready to enroll
• I'm interested and have a few questions