Algorithmic Generation of Computer Game Music

Topic Description

Computer games have become very sophisticated, in that they provide users with a very flexible experience. In particular they embody non-linear narratives, and support variable rates of progress through a range of scenarios. This flexibility is not always well-matched by the use of pre-recorded music, so an algorithmic approach is attractive.

In this project you will develop approaches to algorithmic music composition which allow for a flexible matching of music and game sequences in order to enhance the user experience.

Skills Required:

• Software development skills
• HCI skills
• Knowledge of computer games
• Knowledge of music theory
• Experience with experimental design

Background Reading:

Available from https://oro.open.ac.uk

Prechtl, Anthony; Laney, Robin; Willis, Alistair and Samuels, Robert (2014). Algorithmic music as intelligent game music. In: AISB50: The 50th Annual Convention of the AISB, 1-4 April 2014, London, UK.

Prechtl, Anthony; Laney, Robin; Willis, Alistair and Samuels, Robert (2014). Methodological approaches to the evaluation of game music systems. In: AM '14 Proceedings of the 9th Audio Mostly: A Conference on Interaction With Sound, ACM, article no. 26.

'A musical feature based approach to automatic music generation in computer games' - Anthony Prechtl's presentation at Procedural Audio Now! - Skype, London, March 26th 2015: Available at https://vimeo.com/130013358