From Sinewaves to Physiologically-Adaptive Soundscapes: The Evolving Relationship Between Sound and Emotion in Video Games

Abstract

This chapter examines the dynamic and evolving relationship between sound and emotion within the context of video games. How sound in games has been utilised to both infer and evoke emotion is discussed, commencing with an historical review that traces back to video games’ humble beginnings. As we move towards the present day this chapter looks at how biofeedback technology, that can facilitate the control and procedural generation of game sound content by way of player-emotion, is transforming the lateral affective interplay between player and video game into something more circular.