The Often Unrealistic Sound Design of Guns in Video Games
Popular belief is that modern video games aim to replicate the exact sound of real-life firearms. However, there are numerous factors that prevent this from being an achievable goal. In this article, we will explore why the sound design of guns in video games is often unrealistic and discuss the challenges faced by game developers in creating a balanced and immersive audio experience.
The Realistic Myth
It is a common misconception that guns in video games sound exactly like their real-life counterparts. In reality, this is far from the truth for several reasons. One of the main issues is the deafening volume of real-life firearm sounds. A simple 9mm pistol generates a sound level (in decibels) of around 160dB, which is why it is advised to wear ear protection when firing. Even with heavy ear protection, firing in enclosed spaces such as indoors or in a vehicle can still result in a sound level that can cause permanent hearing damage.
Sound Design in Video Games
When considering the sound design of guns in video games, it is important to understand the balance between realism and enjoyment. The sound of gunfire in a video game must be impactful enough to immerse the player in the experience but not so realistic as to be painful or disconcerting. The people behind the development of games like Ghost Recon Wildlands did indeed record sound effects for firearms, aiming to make the game as realistic as possible. However, this process is fraught with challenges.
A well-known issue is the lack of realistic sound reproduction. To achieve the level of realism that some seek, one would need extremely expensive and powerful speakers to capture and reproduce the true sound levels of a firearm. Not only is this impractical for the average gamer's home setup, but it would also not be a feasible solution for the more widespread user base. Thus, most video games opt for a balance between realism and the practical limitations of home audio systems.
Why Realism is Compromised
The in-game sound design is often a compromise between creating a believable and immersive gaming experience and ensuring that players are not constantly deafened by hyper-realistic sounds. While developers might aim for realistic sounds, especially for the sake of authenticity, the practical problems make this a difficult task to achieve.
Consider the player's experience. In many scenarios, players do not want to hear every single detail of gunfire. Instead, they want sounds that are tactile and convincing enough to make the game feel real. Ultrarealistic audio can be jarring and may break the flow of the game. A realistic sound can also be overwhelming, leading to issues like tinnitus or even hearing damage.
Real World Application and Future Prospects
For developers, the quest for realism is ongoing. Innovations in technology and audio engineering continue to bring us closer to creating a more immersive experience. However, the current state of home audio systems and the expectations of players mean that completely realistic sound design remains a distant goal.
Despite the challenges, some developers are experimenting with more sophisticated audio solutions. For example, certain games use binaural audio or spatial audio to create a more immersive experience. These technologies can provide a more realistic spatial representation of sound, although they do not fully replicate the loudness of real-life firearms.
Conclusion
In summary, while the goal of creating realistic sound design in video games is admirable, the practical limitations of home audio systems and the balance needed between realism and player enjoyment make it a continuous challenge. Future advancements in technology may ultimately bring us closer to achieving this goal, but for now, the often unrealistic sound design of guns in video games is a reality that developers must navigate.
Keywords: Gun sound design, video game sound, realistic gunfire, sound level in games, realistic game experience