Game Audio: The Blindfold Test

In my previous post I discussed the importance of setting up thorough test procedures for audio testing. BUT the challenge of interactive audio design is how well the music design enhances the drama perceived by game player.

Although computer games is a visual media – it might be necessary to perform an audio test without visuals when considering the actual music design. Some of the most important aspects of music design are:

• How well the music themes enhance the drama perceived by player
• Whether more variations – or even silence – would be needed
• How the dynamic levels are compared to sound design and dialog

My idea for audio testing the relationship between music, sound design and dialogue is the blindfold test.

The blindfold test would require two games testers – QA1 and QA2:

Part 1:

• QA1 is blindfolded and wearing headphones connected to the console, where game play is going to be performed
• QA2 plays through a level – music and sound effects are turned on
• QA1 listens to the game play QA2 is performing.

This procedure can be used to find out how well the musical context and sound effects correspond to the gaming experience – meaning the players experience of drama, emotion and ‘inner visual’ experience.

Part 2:

• QA1 plays the same level without blindfold and headphones – music and sound effects are turned off
• QA1 plays the same level without blindfold but with headphones – music and sound effects are turned on

Part 3:

• QA1 makes a comparison of all 3 tests.

Comparing the 3 tests would be a way to find out how well the musical context and sound effects correspond to the graphic context.

The blindfold test can not stand alone as a method to test the music design, but can be used as a support to the audio testing procedures*. Developing and optimizing test procedures is one of the important steps towards better audio design in future game development.

*See post ‘Game Audio: Audio Testing’