Description
Book SynopsisMusic is central to the experience of interacting with video games. In this book, Tim Summers explores the functions of music in video games, offers new insights into well-loved game music and provides a wide array of new tools and concepts for its analysis.
Trade Review'This outstanding book does much to establish an 'extended techniques' musicology, allying close analysis of music with crucial knowledge of gaming construction and procedures. Tim Summers' years of 'deep research' into the subject make this a book of extreme sophistication and erudition that will define the field for years to come.' K. J. Donnelly, University of Southampton
'Tim Summers' Understanding Video Game Music is among the most innovative musicological studies published in recent years. Combining musicology, game studies, and media theory, Summers provides an authoritative analytical framework for video game music. This book is timely, playful, and lucid. It will without doubt become a standard work in the field.' Isabella van Elferen, Kingston University
'… it is an essential read for those who are vested in bringing ludomusicology into academia, and incredibly interesting for those who are simply interested in philosophical dialogues, personal anecdotes, or historical background regarding music and games.' Emily McMillan, VGMO (www.vgmonline.net)
Table of ContentsForeword James Hannigan; Introduction; Part I. Analysing Video Game Music: 1. The video game as a source; 2. Methods of analysis; Part II. Critical Perspectives: 3. Texturing and the aesthetics of immersion; 4. Music and virtual game worlds; 5. Communication for play; 6. Hollywood film music and game music; 7. Musical play and video games; Epilogue; Appendix: how to hear a video game; Bibliography.
