Producing adaptive music for non-linear media

Abstract

As non-linear media such as videogames and interactive applications are getting more popular each year and interactivity is being implemented into other media, a need for non-linear adaptive music is growing. Traditionally a linear medium, music, needs to adapt to the actions the user decides to take in these interactive experiences. Adaptivity has been a vital part of videogame scores for years, but the techniques are shifting as new ways to compose and implement music for videogames are being developed constantly.

In the thesis history of adaptive music, techniques non-linear music composers, adaptive music techniques and means of implementation were discussed and compared with examples. A comprehensive look into the various possibilities of composition and implementation of score music for videogames was given.

A score for a virtual reality puzzle game was composed and implemented utilizing Ableton Live and Audiokinetic Wwise software to create an immersive and adaptive score. The combination of Live and Wwise worked well together, supporting the adaptive fashion of the game score. Using Wwise was a learning experience and through experimentation and testing an interactive music system suitable for the project was created.