Arcen Games

Other => Game Development => : PVega8 August 17, 2010, 10:39:51 AM

: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 17, 2010, 10:39:51 AM
Hello Everyone!

 My name is Pablo Vega and I'm the Composer and Sound Designer for Arcen Games. I'm starting this thread to talk about the music and sound of our games in more depth, and to have a place for everyone to ask questions.

 Working with Arcen has been a dream come true, and as we continue to work on more games, I'd love to share some insight on my work with all of you. So, feel free to post any questions and I will do my very best to respond quickly.

Thank you all again for your continued support.

There will also be continued discussion about music on my facebook music page: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Pablo-Vega-Music/105436296179600?ref=mf (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Pablo-Vega-Music/105436296179600?ref=mf)

Be sure to check out the music page for previews of upcoming game soundtracks (including the re-mastered soundtrack of AI War: Fleet Command and AI War: The Zenith Remnant).
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr August 17, 2010, 11:20:28 AM
Wooot! Awesome Pablo!

I've already told you this, but the intro themes for AI War and Tidalis (Tidalis in particular) are works of pure awesomeness. I, however, didn't like the intro to Zenith Remnant as much though. The AI War in game music is hit and miss really, with many I like and a few I cringe a bit at. All in all though I feel you are pretty epic as far as music goes ;)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 17, 2010, 11:24:12 AM
Well, I appreciate all complements and criticisms. Being able to look at your music objectively is the only way to become better, so I appreciate your honesty! If you have any specific qualms about some tracks, I'd love to hear it! I don't get easily offended about negative comments (unless they're blatantly cruel, like "Your music sucks" haha), so I'd love to discuss!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: RCIX August 17, 2010, 05:35:11 PM
Cool! If i ever have time, i'll go through and comment on some of your works for AI war and Tidalis.

One thing that does spring to mind is that the song for the cave levels in Tidalis sounds a lot like a christmas song, not sure which though.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 17, 2010, 05:36:59 PM
Haha, I love Christmas music! If you can think of which song it is, let me know.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: getter77 August 18, 2010, 12:54:07 PM
I'll be the one to post some obvious questions then....likely due to my still scrambling around trying to think on said obvious things:

1.  Software/tools/hardware  =  What is/has been used and what are your thoughts on them and other comparable ones out there?  Are there insane things you aspire to make use of at some point like this crazy thing?

http://www.symbolicsound.com/cgi-bin/bin/view/Company/WebHome

2.  For people looking to get into digital music composition/generation/etc, whom lack a musical background, what would be some recommended steps/methods to go about things?  Is specialized hardware beyond a modern Windows desktop PC pretty well essential or is that more of something to graduate to down the line?

3.  "insert obvious question I've forgotten about here"   8)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr August 18, 2010, 01:04:48 PM
I've done my fair share of electronic music myself...started in the nineties with Fasttracker and migrated to ModPlug when Fasttracker went the way of "Windows backward compability death" and since then moved on to Propellerheads Reason. I, too, would be intrigued to know what programs you use to make your music, and if it's any acoustic work involved at all (the Tidalis theme surely has a REAL guitar in it, no?)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 18, 2010, 02:16:05 PM
Great questions!

1) I have a MacBook Pro that I use for all my music software. I use a combination of Logic Studio, ProTools LE, Melodyne, Garritan Live Orchestra, and some live recording (also through Logic and ProTools). There are also many music packages that come with Logic Studio and ProTools (like Reason, Amplitude, Trash, iZotope) that I also use for specific instruments. Trash is a great program for manipulating (and bringing to life) drum sounds, iZotope is a wonderful mastering program, etc...

Logic Studio comes with a bundle of stuff (pretty much the upgraded version of garageband). It's a set of about 7 DVD's of content, and is well worth the money. Not too expensive compared to what other programs (like ProTools) cost, but you can pretty much do everything with that.

ProTools is excellent for live recording and editing, and that's why I use it. I have a really nice Neumann Microphone that plugs into a Focusrite ISA One Pre-amp. That then plugs into the ProTools Digirack 003, which plugs into the computer.

Also have a pretty basic (OLD) Yamaha PF85, that has very limited live sounds, but has midi capabilities. So, I plug that into the digirack as well and use most of the midi sounds from Logic.

The live recording is mostly done on the microphone (aka vocals, sound effects, etc.). Then they're manipulated on ProTools using different effects that come with the program.

2) The best advice (and I hope you don't feel like this is cheap) is to get some kind of DAW software, and just play around. I have a couple friends who use Fruity Loops, and can make some insanely good beats for hip-hop. Some of those guys are really good at it, and can produce some high-quality stuff.

But, before I went to school to study composition, all I did was just play around with anything I could. I had no concept of what musical notes or notation were. I just sat down on a piano, and tried to figure it out. I would go outside and throw sticks on concrete, and then on clay, and then on grass, and played drums on trash cans, and tried to make music on literally anything I could get my hands on. It's all about experimentation and creativity. Trying new things, new sounds, etc.

A lot of those digital programs will allow you to record different things, and just mess around and see what you come up with.

If you have a chance, check out my facebook music page. I'm about to put up a piece I composed in college. The only thing I used to compose this piece was a sound clip of an audience cheering. Then, I manipulated it using ProTools, and came up with the final product. The piece is called "Invasion" as it's supposed to be an Alien Invasion. Once again, the only sound clip used (and manipulated) is the sound of a crowd cheering.

PS: No, the guitar on the theme is actually a midi guitar sample from Logic. They do good stuff ;)

: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: getter77 August 18, 2010, 03:12:05 PM
Thanks for the prompt answers thus far, I think I spot a few unfamiliar characters to Google up.  FLoops and Reaper seem to be gaining traction on the "from scratch with nothing else to plug into the PC" angle...

http://www.reaper.fm/
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 18, 2010, 03:18:07 PM
Definitely!

Like I said, there are many programs out there that you don't have to spend a lot of money on, but you can use to it's full potential and make some cool stuff!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: strangelight August 18, 2010, 10:01:52 PM
I'm a music buff myself, and I really enjoy your work. Yours is one of the only game ost's I listen to outside or inside the game.

The only criticism I have is the Zenith Remnant vocal samples that play every single time I load the game, it gets annoying :D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Spikey00 August 18, 2010, 10:39:17 PM
Just dropping by to offer words of praise for your works--a lot of the game atmosphere is derived from your music, and I'm eager to hear more from you Pablo!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 19, 2010, 03:51:05 AM
Well I appreciate all the comments! I'm not sure what vocal samples you're talking about? Is it the ones in the "Heart Of Zenith" or "Fire And Iron" tracks? If so, they will be done much better in the re-mastered tracks which will be available to you in a couple months.

If it's the taunts, then those are just set in play, sorry about that.

Thanks again though for the compliments :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr August 19, 2010, 06:28:52 AM
I think he's referring to the "noise" on startup of Zenith Remnant-only AI War. Then the vocal samples that say "We've discovered the Zenith Remnant"...

They are pretty much the reason I don't like the ZR theme song. Also, it's a lot more diminutive than the vanilla AI War theme. There was something very epic about the stock theme...with the background pads and strong cello. Actually a very compelling reason for me to originally buy the game after I downloaded the demo. The music was GREAT for an indy game. Tell Chris that, Pablo, and he'll be happy and give you a raise! xD
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 19, 2010, 03:10:07 PM
Haha, awesome!

The re-mastered tracks don't have the "We've discovered the Zenith Remnant" dialogue in it. As far as I knew, I thought that was only playing in the trailer and no longer in the actual track? Oh well, that's going to be fixed.

There is something to be said about having a very stoic melody/theme for the title music of a game. As Zenith Remnant was an expansion, I thought it more a continuation of the original soundtrack, and so didn't give it that same kind of feel. But, you've definitely given me a lot to think about.

I feel like a lot of my music is "underscoring" and would be great for film, but as I compose for video games more and more I realize how important it is to have those driving melodies. Chris and I had a very long discussion about that before composing for "Tidalis". And, as you can tell from the music, all those tracks are very melody driven.

Chris has told me he thinks I'm doing a good job haha, thanks though!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: RCIX August 19, 2010, 06:00:55 PM
I actually stuffed your music onto my iPod so i could listen to it wherever. It just has this 8-bit classic style that i love! ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: strangelight August 19, 2010, 08:03:28 PM
The re-mastered tracks don't have the "We've discovered the Zenith Remnant" dialogue in it. As far as I knew, I thought that was only playing in the trailer and no longer in the actual track? Oh well, that's going to be fixed.

That's what I wanted to hear, or rather, what I didn't.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr August 20, 2010, 05:57:07 AM
Soo...when will we see these remastered tracks? *puppy eyes*
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 20, 2010, 10:29:55 AM
The new tracks will be available with the release of AI War 4.0, probably in October. But, if you'd like to hear a few more sneak peaks, be sure to check out my facebook music page. I'll be putting up a few more today!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 20, 2010, 10:31:06 AM
Do you mean the Tidalis music, or all my music in general? Either way, thanks for the compliment!

I actually stuffed your music onto my iPod so i could listen to it wherever. It just has this 8-bit classic style that i love! ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 20, 2010, 11:50:56 AM
I'm a music buff myself, and I really enjoy your work. Yours is one of the only game ost's I listen to outside or inside the game.

The only criticism I have is the Zenith Remnant vocal samples that play every single time I load the game, it gets annoying :D

Ohhh, I was confused. I just now listened to what you were talking about. So... what exactly bothers you about the dialogue? Just that it plays every time you start the game?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr August 20, 2010, 06:34:21 PM
There's three things that bothers me about the ZR theme.

1. The odd noises in the beginning.
I know they are meant to simulate static and a crappy communication link, but they fit better in a trailer than in a theme song. Especially since you get hit by them every single time you start the game.

2. The dialog doesn't really fit with a theme song either, so this is really part 1½  on my list :D

3. The actual song is very nice, but doesn't carry the same epic whoomp as the original theme. The ZR theme is much more of a "oh shat we lost" kinda song. Very good in itself, but I'm heavily biased towards the stock song.

Much of this have been alleviated with the recent change to play the theme musics randomly on game startup. However, I've been having bad luck and getting 8/10 to be the ZR theme. I've even found myself restarting the game until I get the "correct" theme. >.<

As I said before, there's really nothing wrong with the song itself, but the long streak of noise and dialog in the beginning really throws it off.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: RCIX August 20, 2010, 08:08:51 PM
Do you mean the Tidalis music, or all my music in general? Either way, thanks for the compliment!

I actually stuffed your music onto my iPod so i could listen to it wherever. It just has this 8-bit classic style that i love! ;D
Well, i only have the AI War music on there right now, but ill grab the tidalis stuff too eventually. The tidalis music is more of that rich, painterly art style :)

So the remastered tracks will be available for free for AI war purchasers?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: eRe4s3r August 21, 2010, 01:48:58 AM
One of these expansion we have to gag x4000 (and maybe keith) so that in the Music discussion with pavel for the 2nd addon (not counting Children of N, as a full addon ,p) we can finally get Homeworld-esque Ambient Tracks/Sequences made. While i do like the music i absolutely dislike it always playing music even in phases where nothing is happening (or indeed - playing a relaxing piano part in the mid of battle ! (note to self - request dynamic situation dependent music fade-in / fade-out / track changes)

Sadly i admit that i play AI War Muted because of this, and just load up a bunch of homeworld 1 and 2 ambient tracks in shuffle - with fade-over enabled.

It would probably require some work to make Ambient Tracks "easy" to fadeover to battle or loss music but i think the acoustic dynamic it would add would be immense.

Wonder whom i have to bribe to make this happen? ;P
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr August 21, 2010, 12:10:21 PM
You mean something similar as to how Total Annihilation/Supreme Commander handles music? Dynamic track assignments? So when you are in peaceful, calm and building phase, the music is similarly calm and once you get attacked, it ramps up with a track that is more intense?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: eRe4s3r August 21, 2010, 04:08:08 PM
Yes ;) With the balance to "more ambiance - less music" and only really large engagements (3+ Minutes) with 100+ ships or so get battle music.

With a 10% chance per 30 minutes for a "relaxing" track to start. Or something along these lines
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 23, 2010, 10:45:43 AM
I'm not exactly sure what our restrictions are in terms of those things, but as more and more DLC comes out, there will be more ambient tracks, that I can promise you. Right now, I'm finishing up re-mastering the TZR tracks, and once I'm through with that, I'll begin on completely new tracks for all the games.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr August 23, 2010, 07:54:33 PM
\o/

Yes, I'm aware such responses are frowned upon...but that's really all there is to say about the matter.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Vinraith August 23, 2010, 11:26:48 PM
The music throughout AI War and the Zenith Remnant is fantastic, in my opinion. I really enjoy the new Zenith Remnant title piece (minus the vocal samples, which I see are going away) as it conveys a much greater sense of loss and sorrow than the original, and is also beautiful in its own right. The other particular standout for me would be Marissa, which is absolutely gorgeous and again conveys a sort of quiet epicness. All in all, AI War and its expansion have some of the best music I've ever heard in a strategy game, or a game in general actually. Kudos Pablo, and keep up the good work for CoN! :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 24, 2010, 08:15:00 AM
Wow, what a great way to start my morning :) Thanks for the compliments! I do feel pretty good about the music, and if you're a fan, then I'm excited for you to hear the re-mastered tracks. I think you will really enjoy them.

If you haven't had a chance yet, check out my facebook music page: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Pablo-Vega-Music/105436296179600?ref=mf (http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Pablo-Vega-Music/105436296179600?ref=mf)

I posted the re-mastered "Revelations 9:6" track from AI War: The Zenith Remnant. Hope you guys like it!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: eRe4s3r August 24, 2010, 08:40:54 AM
Wow - that is indeed an extreme improvement!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 24, 2010, 08:47:05 AM
Thank you! Yeah, it's a big difference. Not only in the quality of the instrumentation, but the general mix, and the overall file quality.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: eRe4s3r August 24, 2010, 09:08:40 AM
Also, since its really bad style to complain about lack of ambience without giving examples i will provide some examples  ;D - i imagine an ambient track like this (Also, is it my spell checker or is ambience not a word?)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Fl3Bq6zyqo

Just long stretched string and bass elements (although maybe a bit less high pitched ;p)

or this

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5GxpFlWtLU&feature=related

Something eerie, lonely, dark and cold without any "happy" elements - just ambience of the endless void of space.

Urgh, i admit i am spoiled by Homeworld's superb audio and musical direction (Paul Ruskay) to the core. Though i think a less "choir" and more "long-stretched strings (kinda like that Invasion track ,p) would fit AI War.

Theres 2 particular tracks in Homeworld 1 OST called "Bridge of Sighs" and "Hyperspace Inhibitors", thats nearly perfect for Ambience as i imagine it (they are ambience tracks in my playlist ,p)

--

Anyhow i have no doubt that the upcoming expansion will include great music tracks ^^

(Edit: And because i posted this i was just browsing through ost of homeworld 1 and found "Final Throes" never heard that track before, but those alien whales sure are eerie!)  :D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 24, 2010, 09:17:01 AM
Haha, the word exists, but it's spelled "Ambiance". Where as "ambient" has an "E", yeah... I know. Weird.

I do like those home world ambient tracks a whole bunch. And yeah, Paul Ruskay pretty much kicks ass. And there will be some more ambient tracks, however with a bit of melody attached in there in parts as well. While I feel like more ambient tracks would add a lot to the soundtrack as a whole, I think having a good mix is good (within the tracks themselves). So, some melody, and some ambiance. I think you will like the newer tracks!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: RCIX August 25, 2010, 04:27:45 PM
*jawdrop*
Wow... Very, Very good!  :o :o :o

I was wondering what the significance of that verse (Revelation 9:6) was in making that track, mind sharing? :)

Hmm... Listening to the remastered "Metal" now, and while it has a very nice, almost sonic-like charm to it, i think you lost what made the original so very nice to listen to. The original had an arcade style to it which made it fit well with AI war, and while this one is nice, it sounds more like some guitar wailing then a piece fit for an epic space fight. Don't get me wrong, it's a good piece, but i just don't feel that it works as well for AI war as your remastered Revelation track.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr August 25, 2010, 05:11:09 PM
MY GOD! I don't have Facebook, but borrowed my girlfriends just to listen to your music and OMG! The remastered tunes are AWESOME! The new theme was....*melts in epic bliss*
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 26, 2010, 08:20:20 AM
I'm glad you got to listen to the tracks!

In response to the new electric guitar in the tracks, I will say to wait and see how it sounds in the actual game. The problem with the arcade guitar sound that was there before was that it was somewhat grating on the ear, and almost too fake to pass. I think these new tracks are a lot more expressive and will be able to instill just as much of that battle *umph* needed in the game.

If you don't like it, then I apologize. I'm trying my best to bring the life out of these tracks that I envisioned originally. Now that we have the means of doing it, it's very exciting for me :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Spikey00 August 26, 2010, 01:11:34 PM
Hey!  Just wanted to drop by again to HOLY GOODNESS, I like that new menu soundtrack!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 26, 2010, 01:25:43 PM
Awesome! Glad you like it :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: RCIX August 26, 2010, 08:25:13 PM
I'm glad you got to listen to the tracks!

In response to the new electric guitar in the tracks, I will say to wait and see how it sounds in the actual game. The problem with the arcade guitar sound that was there before was that it was somewhat grating on the ear, and almost too fake to pass. I think these new tracks are a lot more expressive and will be able to instill just as much of that battle *umph* needed in the game.

If you don't like it, then I apologize. I'm trying my best to bring the life out of these tracks that I envisioned originally. Now that we have the means of doing it, it's very exciting for me :)
No problem. The more i listen to it, the more it grows on me. *makes fake guitar playing motions in tune to the track* :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 27, 2010, 10:52:03 AM
Air guitar is one of my favorite instruments :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Vinraith August 27, 2010, 05:14:18 PM
It's sounding great so far, Pablo. Keep up the good work, and do me a favor and post the "Marisa" remaster when you get around to that one.  ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Magos Mechanicus August 29, 2010, 05:36:32 AM
Just wanted to say the reason I finally joined this forum was buying Tidalis on a whim, starting the Adventure mode and being afraid to click anything lest the music stop. It's a quite rare thing for me; really only happened before with Civilization IV's Baba Yetu.
I've since spent some time hunting around the Tidalis files and a few tracks have made their way onto my iPod too. Curiously it seems to be the piano solo tracks that most captivate me. Partly I think that's because I play myself and you do always respond better to an instrument you know, but I gotta say, you have a real knack for these. Beautiful melodies at the core, with nicely balanced arrangements that complement without overcomplicating.

Keep up the good work!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 30, 2010, 11:04:28 AM
I'm uploading the new "Marisa" track on the facebook page as we speak.

Thank you so much for the note about the piano work. I started tinkering around with the piano when I was around 12 years old. My older sister used to take piano lessons, and after she would finish, I would walk in there and see if I could play what I was listening to from the other room. I was at how much fun it was, so I started listening to the radio a lot more and playing what I would hear. I got really good at playing by ear, so I decided to take piano lessons myself. After about a year from piano lessons with John Herrmann (one of the most amazing musicians I have ever met) I got distracted and stupidly quit because "I didn't want to play boring stuff anymore, I wanted to to play the music I liked".

That was my biggest mistake. Having already had a decent ear for it, I should've kept up. Needless to say, I kept playing by ear and by the time I reached high school, I was able to "fake" my way through the piano. I did, however, practice a lot. I would say around 2-3 hours a day.

Now, I'm dying to take piano lessons again so that I can get my chops up. But, I appreciate the comments on the piano work. That's what I'm most comfortable at, and was the basis for 90% of my compositions. I love the piano, it's an amazing instrument.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Spikey00 August 30, 2010, 12:51:32 PM
Can Pablo play some classical songs?  Heh, all the best on your lessons!

All these remastered version are awesome, I love the extra 'feel' to them, as the individual sounds are well defined and mix together very well. 

I don't think many people can wait for a month until AI War 4.0 arrives for this--I can't!  *Rips music and converts to .ogg*  ;)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 30, 2010, 12:53:29 PM
Yep! I'm excited for the release as well.

The soundtracks will be available on iTunes after they're released in October as well :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 01, 2010, 03:47:40 PM
In the meantime, if you like the music of "Tidalis" you can check out the original soundtrack available on iTunes!

http://bit.ly/9kSrLO
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Vinraith September 01, 2010, 05:45:29 PM
Any chance of releasing them through other digital retailers?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 01, 2010, 05:47:19 PM
Well, you could always pick up a copy of Tidalis! haha.

Unfortunately iTunes is the only avenue of music I'm selling the album. As it is, not many people buy the album and breaking even is a big challenge.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Spikey00 September 02, 2010, 02:40:31 PM
I-is that you singing in "Nothing Else But You"!?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 02, 2010, 02:47:03 PM
Yep! That's me. I love to sing! I sang all through high school and college, and in my college A Cappella group "The Clef Hangers", along side my buddy Anoop Desai who placed 6th in American Idol two seasons ago. I'm nowhere as good as he is, but I do love to sing!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Vinraith September 02, 2010, 02:55:09 PM
Well, you could always pick up a copy of Tidalis! haha.

Unfortunately iTunes is the only avenue of music I'm selling the album. As it is, not many people buy the album and breaking even is a big challenge.

I already did. :)

Yeah, I can understand only going through the biggest retailer for something niche like this I suppose, I just really dislike iTunes.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 02, 2010, 02:56:54 PM
I'm sorry to hear about that! iTunes just tends to be easy to work with, but I can see how it can be a problem with some.

Thanks for taking interest either way!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Spikey00 September 02, 2010, 03:01:46 PM
That only proves to me that you are even more talented than I first believed. 
*Bows down*
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 02, 2010, 03:09:10 PM
Haha, well thank you very much!

I feel like being a musician, and especially a composer, I have to immerse myself in all aspects of music. One of the greatest pieces of advice I've ever gotten came from one of my college professors, Dr. Daniel Huff, who said that "It's imperative for all musicians to be stylistically plural".

And he's right. My first instrument was the drums, and then I moved on to piano, started singing, and now i'm trying to learn how to play the guitar, flute, violin, etc... basically anything I can get my hands on.

And learning about all kinds of music as well. Who knows, maybe one day I'll be commissioned to score a film for a western, or for a war game that takes place in the middle east. I have to be knowledgeable in all kinds of music and prepared to churn out anything on command.

It requires a lot of work and study, but I love my job. It really is the greatest job in the world.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Spikey00 September 03, 2010, 04:17:24 PM
Arcen Games seriously packs a lot of talent within this indie company; Chris is amazing with well, everything, Keith is essentially the same, Fiskbit is (I'm assuming because there's not much news about him going around) handling Tidalis by himself, you're a famous musician...!

I feel so useless!  :\
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 07, 2010, 02:54:04 PM
For those of you who don't have facebook, you can check out the music on my MySpace page: www.myspace.com/pablovegamusic

Thanks!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: HellishFiend September 07, 2010, 05:26:49 PM
I just wanted to chip in my two cents and say that I love the Zenith Remnant soundtrack. I'm a big fan of both orchestral and metal, and with the addition of the ZR soundtrack, AI War has elements of both. I even like the original mix of the Zenith Remnant menu music, including the samples at the beginning. In fact, it became a ritual for my friend and I to say that we were in the mood to play AI war by making some kind of exchange like:

"Guess what I discovered?"
"What?"
"I've discovered the Zenith Remnant!"
"Copy..."
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 07, 2010, 05:28:43 PM
Haha, that's awesome!

Well, be sure to save those older tracks after the release of the re-mastered ones come out then :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: RCIX September 07, 2010, 10:08:38 PM
I just listened to Neinzul Lullaby (awesome) and Voyage to Zenith. Listening to it [the latter], i have to say that towards the end, there's a lack of anything but high notes, which is a little unpleasant. They're both awesome remakes though :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 08, 2010, 10:08:38 AM
That's true, there is a lot of high notes and not much towards the end. I will say that most of the music at the end is subtle though. Not to loud and delicately played. Is it unpleasant because it's grating on the ear or just because it feels like it's missing something?

In comparison to most other pieces, it does lack a bass, but what I wanted was sort of a decaying effect towards the end where the music strips itself away. But, what you said is valid, and a good observation in the music. Tough to please everyone, but I'm really glad you like the music in general! Voyage to Zenith is more about the fusion of the original AI War Theme and Zenith Theme (which is more dominant towards the end of the piece). At one point, there's a cool piano duet playing both themes simultaneously which took quite a bit of work, but turned out pretty successful I feel.

Thanks for the comments however! Feedback of any kind is high appreciated :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Vinraith September 08, 2010, 04:14:26 PM
While the new version of Marisa is lovely, it seems to have lost some of the "oomph" of the original, at least to my ear. The sort of "rumbling" underneath the original track, punctuate by the occasional "thunderclap" of bass to punctuate certain moments in the melody, seem to have been downplayed or eliminated. The new track is still very pretty, but it's less... cathartic. It's about the only remaster I haven't completely adored, though, for what that's worth.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 08, 2010, 04:18:21 PM
A lot of the drone-y bass stuff has been taking out in the re-mastered tracks. Mainly because we've had complaints from people playing the game with lower quality speakers. That bass-y/drone-y sound that has been taken out was sounding like a lot of fuzz on their speakers and making the over all quality of the tracks sound fuzzy.

So, apologies for that. I actually am a HUGE fan of those bass sounds, but unfortunately we have to do our best to cater to everyone. At the worst quality possible, our music should still sound good to everyone.

Thanks for the comment :) For those of you missing that extra bass-y sound, I might have a "limited edition" set of tracks with that added back on!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: HellishFiend September 08, 2010, 04:39:32 PM
That would be great! I use high quality speakers and definitely am able to appreciate things of that nature, and miss them when theyre gone, as well.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 08, 2010, 04:42:36 PM
Sounds good!

There's a couple that are bass-less right now. If you have any in particular, I'd like to know.

So far:

1) Odyssey
2) Marisa
3) Energy Storm
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Vinraith September 08, 2010, 04:45:32 PM
A lot of the drone-y bass stuff has been taking out in the re-mastered tracks. Mainly because we've had complaints from people playing the game with lower quality speakers. That bass-y/drone-y sound that has been taken out was sounding like a lot of fuzz on their speakers and making the over all quality of the tracks sound fuzzy.

So, apologies for that. I actually am a HUGE fan of those bass sounds, but unfortunately we have to do our best to cater to everyone. At the worst quality possible, our music should still sound good to everyone.

Thanks for the comment :) For those of you missing that extra bass-y sound, I might have a "limited edition" set of tracks with that added back on!

That would be really fantastic Pablo, thanks for considering it! :) I certainly understand the need to cater to everyone, though those with really low end sound hardware are cheating themselves terrible with this game.  ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 08, 2010, 04:48:14 PM
This is true ;)

I wish you guys could hear it from my speakers. I remember the first time Chris came over and checked out my studio, he couldn't believe the difference from how it sounds here vs. through his computer speakers (and his are pretty nice!).

Sound conversion has been one of our battles, but I think we're doing a pretty great job now :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: HellishFiend September 08, 2010, 05:04:34 PM
I certainly understand the need to cater to everyone, though those with really low end sound hardware are cheating themselves terrible with this game.  ;D

On that note, I actually feel thats true about most music these days. People just dont seem to care enough about sound quality, and those of us that do care about it have to suffer the consequences. The Loudness war has ruined new music because marketing gurus deem it fit to cater to people using ipods with stock earbuds to listen to music instead of a decent sound system, or even high quality earbuds.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: RCIX September 08, 2010, 07:22:43 PM
That's true, there is a lot of high notes and not much towards the end. I will say that most of the music at the end is subtle though. Not to loud and delicately played. Is it unpleasant because it's grating on the ear or just because it feels like it's missing something?
It's not exactly grating, but more of it creates a sort of pressure on my ears (which is relived by lower tones). I think i get what you were going for though. :)

I certainly understand the need to cater to everyone, though those with really low end sound hardware are cheating themselves terrible with this game.  ;D

On that note, I actually feel thats true about most music these days. People just dont seem to care enough about sound quality, and those of us that do care about it have to suffer the consequences. The Loudness war has ruined new music because marketing gurus deem it fit to cater to people using ipods with stock earbuds to listen to music instead of a decent sound system, or even high quality earbuds.
Well, see, that's the thing: i can appreciate a nice pair of Sennheisers (i got a nice budget HD 205 model right now), but i can also easily tolerate stock iPod earbuds. I've just never been very picky about how i hear my music.

And if you made a limited edition version of this music, i would so buy it. :D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 09, 2010, 02:54:43 AM
Well, what I'll do is make "limited versions" of the tracks, and when I put the albums on sale (after the regular tracks are released as free DLC), I will add those bonus tracks to the iTunes album. I will also put them up on MySpace: www.myspace.com/pablovegamusic (http://www.myspace.com/pablovegamusic) and my Facebook Music Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pablo-Vega-Music/105436296179600 (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pablo-Vega-Music/105436296179600)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: eRe4s3r September 09, 2010, 03:26:52 AM
Actually Marisa (i haven't checked the others) have enough oohmph imo, the "hit" effect of each mid and low note on a piano produces a very noticeable mid-range pressure that you need good speakers to notice, but if you have them you won't miss the bass at all. Its just not using the subwoofer for the oohmph.

It does however, have a very squeaky high pitched noise , not sure what it is really, but its a really high note of some instrument , its not grating but very noticeable.. which i assume is what rcix means.

For reference, i am using a Teufel Concept E 400 5.1

That said, a full usage of the low frequencies is imo vital - people who don't care for good sound should be punished!  ;D ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 09, 2010, 11:03:04 AM
It might just be an equalization issue where I'll need to cut down some of the high frequency in the celesta. It has a very "pingy" quality.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: vonduus September 25, 2010, 08:05:10 AM
That said, a full usage of the low frequencies is imo vital - people who don't care for good sound should be punished!  ;D ;D

I agree!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 September 27, 2010, 12:20:22 PM
Alright everyone, I just put up the "Midnight" track on my facebook music page and on my MySpace page: www.myspace.com/pablovegamusic

I'm sure a lot of you heard it already in the YouTube Star Fields trailer that Chris put up. That sound file is in .ogg format. The ones I put up on facebook and MySpace are the .mp3, so the quality will be better.

Enjoy!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 08, 2010, 02:58:02 PM
For those of you interested, the release of the re-mastered tracks will be very soon!

They will be released through DLC, but if you want some additional tracks, they will be on sale through iTunes. More to come very soon!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 09, 2010, 01:38:11 AM
I'm sure a lot of you heard it already in the YouTube Star Fields trailer that Chris put up. That sound file is in .ogg format. The ones I put up on facebook and MySpace are the .mp3, so the quality will be better.
Wow, that went against everything I thought I knew. I always thought that similar compression OGG was better (less lossy) than MP3. Or to make a comparison, if I use medium settings on both, the MP3 sounds worse (more artifacts) than the OGG.

Am I just imagining?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Fiskbit October 09, 2010, 09:01:02 PM
That's my understanding of OGG Vorbis, as well. It should sound better than an MP3 of the same quality, which is due what parts of the signal they drop rather than the format actually being less lossy. Also, if you're converting between MP3 and OGG (either way), you'll get something that sounds even worse because they each lose different things. :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 11, 2010, 11:31:40 AM
You know, I said that not having actually read up on it, but I think it's just because of the studio speakers I work with here. For some reason, .mp3's sound a lot more crisp and clear on these speakers than the converted .ogg files. However, when I played them through normal speakers, .ogg did sound better.

I apologize for the confusion.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 11, 2010, 11:34:07 AM
And the conversion happens from .wav to .ogg or to .mp3. So, both sound fantastic either way. If I had taken another step in-between, then it probably wouldn't sound that great.

I can't wait for ProTools to be able to convert directly to .ogg from the base sound file.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 11, 2010, 01:53:05 PM
It's probably the reason there (the speakers that is). MP3 will lose quality, while OGG will simply cut away frequencies that we generally don't hear too well. So, in effect, that could cause the "dullness" you refer too. In spite of this, I prefer OGG (or FLAC, if I get to decide ;) ) due to my ears being very sensitive to the artifacts caused by MP3 compression. I literally cringe at most MP3 music (if in headphones. Don't hear them well in speakers)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 11, 2010, 01:59:11 PM
I guess most of the time i'm listening for depth in the music, and I feel like .mp3 does a good job of placing the instruments where I want them. But, I see what you mean with the compression. Quality over position.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 11, 2010, 02:10:20 PM
I'm just an amateur musician though, so I have a very non-scientific approach. I go completely by feel.

For some of my old works, if you are interested, see here: http://www.ic-musicmedia.com/moonshine (http://www.ic-musicmedia.com/moonshine)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 12, 2010, 12:33:40 AM
Good news:

Bass sounds are coming back for all the tracks :) Stay tuned for updates!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: HellishFiend October 13, 2010, 03:14:27 AM
Bass is always good.  ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 13, 2010, 04:29:12 PM
Haha, bass is ALWAYS good! But, it's not just a bass playing, there are a lot of ambient background bass sounds that I'm going to be bringing back up throughout.

The first set of revisions of the original soundtrack have now been distributed. I hope you guys get to download and check them out!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Thumpy October 13, 2010, 04:52:27 PM
really diggin your stuff in the context of AI war. it's not the kind of stuff i'd listen to away from the game. that doesn't take away from your talent, my tru passion lies more in the singer songwriter genre: townes van zandt, dylan, neil young etc.  i read earlier that you are using garritan live orchestra. i have used it before as well and i really love the cello sounds on it. they have a sampled stradivari, too.. right? some of the instruments sounded familiar. and oh yes, i love the crazy remnant intro.. really sets the mood for the game.

: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 14, 2010, 01:58:30 PM
Well, I'm glad you hear that you're liking the music! Yep, I have Garritan Orchestra running through Logic. It's pretty awesome.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 14, 2010, 02:16:00 PM
The remastered tracks are truly awesome! There's really only 1 or 2 I don't like, but then again, I didn't like them much before either :D So it's absolutely fantastic work there, Pablo!

One of the new CoN tunes sounds strangely Tidalis-like. Intended? :D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 14, 2010, 02:17:56 PM
I'm still working on a lot of them right now, that was my first big drive at them.

This is an open forum, so if there are some you don't like, then please let me know! I'd ask people not to be rude, I take criticism very well. I'm just very curious as to which ones aren't liked. Also, which one is "Tidalis" like?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 14, 2010, 02:50:20 PM
I'm still working on a lot of them right now, that was my first big drive at them.

This is an open forum, so if there are some you don't like, then please let me know! I'd ask people not to be rude, I take criticism very well. I'm just very curious as to which ones aren't liked. Also, which one is "Tidalis" like?
Currently stuck at work, but I'll get to find the names of the songs once I get back home and get back to you. The new "debug" window is very convienient for finding track names while in game, and switching tracks is also easy. Pause and unpause and a new track starts to play.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 14, 2010, 04:56:41 PM
Okay, so a bit of a reply here then:

"Warp" is the one I really don't like. I didn't like it much in the earlier versions, but the remastered track emphasizes the electrical guitar too much and makes it stand out and "disturb" the feeling of the song. It feels like it doesn't really fit with the rest of the tune.

"Odyssey" is also one I find myself turning the audio down on. Not so much because of the tune itself, but because it seems to be much louder in volume than the rest. The lead strings are also very intense and kinda cuts through your thoughts and is "in the way" of the game. Other than that it's actually a nice tune. I love it when the background "pulsing" strings come in.

"Midnight" requires a special mention, because it's just effing awesome. Seriously, this tune makes me all dreamy and stuff. The melody is very soothing and as an amateur musician, I love the way the chords change. LOVE IT! Period.

"EnergyStorm" was a tune that really became a masterpiece with the remastering. It's on par with Midnight. Absolutely beautiful.

"Neinzul Lullaby" was the one I was thinking of. I get a distinct "Tidalis" feel of this tune. It's very nice to listen to, but not sure it really fits with AI:War. Or I'm just spoiled with the Tidalis soundtrack xD
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 14, 2010, 05:01:23 PM
You know, we must have very similar tastes, because "Warp" and "Odyssey" are two that I had a problem with as well.

One of the reasons I'm taking another look at some of these tracks are because of these two tracks specifically. Warp might end up just getting scrapped if I don't find a good mix for all the instruments. And you're ABSOLUTELY right about Odyssey being too loud. It's not just loud, it's kind of piercing.

These will definitely be fixed.

If you like "Midnight", then the next track being currently composed and recorded "The Next Chapter" will be right up your alley. I'm really excited about it.

Haha, the Neinzul Lullaby does kind of have a very tribal (almost Tidalis like) feel. You're right! I really like that song haha.

Thanks so much for your input! I'm glad we're seeing eye-to-eye!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 14, 2010, 05:25:59 PM
You know, we must have very similar tastes, because "Warp" and "Odyssey" are two that I had a problem with as well.

One of the reasons I'm taking another look at some of these tracks are because of these two tracks specifically. Warp might end up just getting scrapped if I don't find a good mix for all the instruments. And you're ABSOLUTELY right about Odyssey being too loud. It's not just loud, it's kind of piercing.

These will definitely be fixed.

If you like "Midnight", then the next track being currently composed and recorded "The Next Chapter" will be right up your alley. I'm really excited about it.

Haha, the Neinzul Lullaby does kind of have a very tribal (almost Tidalis like) feel. You're right! I really like that song haha.

Thanks so much for your input! I'm glad we're seeing eye-to-eye!
Almost ashamed to say that I wouldn't cry if Warp was scrapped. I personally don't even feel it has much potential, but who knows, you might make some miracles with it! I'd be really happy for a new version of Odyssey, because it's a good and engaging tune, just very much out of balance as it stands.

Also eagerly awaiting your new tune! I really like your style, so I pretty much think I'll like it :D (You're very different from my own kinda music though. Then again, I haven't really composed anything in a couple of years :( )
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 14, 2010, 05:32:57 PM
Well get back on the bandwagon!

Unless you're incredibly busy, in which case I understand. Otherwise, nothing's stopping you! Composition doesn't require a lot of fancy machines. Just an open mind and a pencil.

: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 14, 2010, 05:35:04 PM
Hehe, I think time is what is lacking. I can mostly only compose when in a certain state of emotion, and when I'm busy with life, I generally don't get these strong emotions required to push a song through. But it happens, occasionally. Still have both my piano and my guitar here at home and use them weekly. Just don't really compose much.

Also, speaking of Tidalis: I've said it before, and I say it again. The intro for Tidalis is magic. One of the absolute best intro tunes I've ever heard. I absolutely adore it.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 14, 2010, 05:36:55 PM
Well I'm happy to hear it!

One of these days i'm upload some of the songs I've written on MySpace and facebook so you guys can hear the work I've done that isn't Arcen related.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Inglonias October 14, 2010, 06:50:17 PM
Dang it, Pablo! How did you know I'm a sucker for the piano?!

Midnight is spot-on gorgeous. Love it!

I agree. The remastering of Warp is a bit... off... Feels... rough? The last version seemed a bit smoother with the guitar than this. Its like the original was played with a synth, and now its a live recording that's less well-done.

: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 15, 2010, 11:08:39 AM
Yeah, i'm really going to see if it's fixable. Otherwise, it might just get scrapped.

Thanks! Piano is my primary instrument, so you'll hear it in pretty much everything I do haha.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: eoraptor October 16, 2010, 12:31:21 PM
What is the track that is featured on the Youtube trailer for A.I. War on the front page of the site? I don't remember hearing that particular arrangement during gameplay and I quite like it. I think it does a very nice job of sampling the mood of the game, and I'd love to hear a version without the ocassional "thuds" that accompany the trailer text :)

And as long as I'm posting here, I'd like to add my compliments to the music overall... just outstanding. In particular, tracks I always look forward to in a game are "Birth of the Golems" - I love how it builds and builds up to that epic finish - and EnergyStorm - there's something very dreamlike about the watching the galaxy go up in fire, all mayhem breaking loose, set to the backdrop of that beautiful piano...
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 17, 2010, 11:47:46 PM
Thanks, I really appreciate the compliments!

That track in the trailer was actually composed solely for that trailer. But, it's an interesting though to re-work it and bring it on as an in-game track. Especially considering that I might scrap "Warp" all together.

I'll let ya'll know once I make a decision. Thanks again!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 18, 2010, 07:03:53 AM
That would be pretty awesome actually. RIP "Warp", though.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 26, 2010, 12:15:46 PM
Final edits of the original soundtrack (with all the umph and bass added back in) coming at you guys in the next couple of weeks. I'm finishing the final mixes and mastering now, they sound awesome! And alas... RIP to "Warp", there was no way around it. Luckily, there is a new track "The Next Chapter" to replace it.

Look out for the album release on iTunes in a week as well!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 26, 2010, 01:35:50 PM
Happy to see Warp go xD Also, are the new tunes in the game for release day, or are they not in?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 26, 2010, 04:38:51 PM
I'm still finishing them up now, so we'll see. They should be out for the official release.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 October 26, 2010, 05:16:12 PM
Do any of you use Logic or Pro Tools?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr October 27, 2010, 01:53:05 AM
No, I've always been very interested in Logic, but unfortunately I don't own a Mac, and Logic went 100% Mac quite a while ago. I'm currently using Reason 4, which in itself is a rather nice program, but the samples leave a bit to be desired. They're a bit "one dimensional".
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Salamander October 29, 2010, 08:01:24 AM
Wanted to throw my 2 cents in here after Moonshine Fox sent me this way.

Overall the music is brilliant and I'm glad to see a small company like Arcen have such excellent music in their games. Like many here I also find the new "Warp" to be a bit off, but I'm a huge fan of the old "Warp" as it's by far my favorite piece from AI War pre-4.0. I would respectfully like to request restoring the old version instead of just ripping it out completely. Warp has power and I find it very inspiring in my game time so I would hate to see it go completely.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: zebramatt October 29, 2010, 08:12:57 AM
I actually enjoy the new Warp track.


Although I perhaps enjoyed the old one moderately more.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Salamander October 29, 2010, 10:00:08 AM
I don't actively dislike the new Warp, it just doesn't quite 'fit' to my ears. I normally love lots of heavy guitar work as I'm a fan of death/thrash/black metal, but the new Warp just feels incongruent in game compared to the old one.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: BlackCobra October 29, 2010, 11:42:00 AM
Wanted to throw my 2 cents in here after Moonshine Fox sent me this way.

Overall the music is brilliant and I'm glad to see a small company like Arcen have such excellent music in their games. Like many here I also find the new "Warp" to be a bit off, but I'm a huge fan of the old "Warp" as it's by far my favorite piece from AI War pre-4.0. I would respectfully like to request restoring the old version instead of just ripping it out completely. Warp has power and I find it very inspiring in my game time so I would hate to see it go completely.
i think the same way
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Beans October 29, 2010, 02:46:48 PM
Wanted to throw my 2 cents in here after Moonshine Fox sent me this way.

Overall the music is brilliant and I'm glad to see a small company like Arcen have such excellent music in their games. Like many here I also find the new "Warp" to be a bit off, but I'm a huge fan of the old "Warp" as it's by far my favorite piece from AI War pre-4.0. I would respectfully like to request restoring the old version instead of just ripping it out completely. Warp has power and I find it very inspiring in my game time so I would hate to see it go completely.

I have to say I agree, any of the new tracks with the guitar don't sound right to me. I think the guitar is just too 'active' and really brings the music out of the background.

All the tracks that have piano, strings, and stuff like that are absolutely beautiful. Overall this game has some of the best space music I have ever heard, I'd put it up there with the soundtrack of "The Dig".
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Gallant Dragon October 30, 2010, 04:55:31 PM
I'd like to say that I agree that while all of the new tracks are awesome, the new guitar pieces do seem a bit incongruous with the rest of the soundtrack.  That's not to say that they're not good, especially the new 'Thor' (bits of which remind me of some of Mike Oldfield's work) and 'Metal', but it is a bit jarring when you're listening to piano and strings and suddenly you have this bass guitar, which, while well-played, is still something terrible to spring upon the unsuspecting.  What I liked about the old guitar pieces was that they blended in better with the rest of the soundtrack.  They were more exciting, but didn't 'stand out' as such.
Perhaps the problem might be solved if there was a way of playing the more 'active' tracks only when there is a major battle?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: HitmanN October 31, 2010, 02:01:50 PM
I'm not too fond of the new guitar-abundant tracks either, though they're no awful per se. Everything else is awesome though. Piano is my favorite instrument to listen to, so I hope there will be more of such in future. ;)

Perhaps the problem might be solved if there was a way of playing the more 'active' tracks only when there is a major battle?

That could help. Altogether it might be neat if there was an option to have music shift according to situation, rather than loop all tracks. Like, for instance, every time a track ends, the current situation affects what track starts playing next. Even just separating non-battle and battle music that way could give the impression that the music is 'aware' of the game world and its events.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 01, 2010, 08:29:43 AM
All fantastic suggestions, and I agree about some of the guitar tracks. The final mixing of them should fix the problem of the guitars sticking out. I had some mixing issues that I should've dealt with before, but that I'm going back and working on right now.

In terms of playing the music based on the current situation, that's something to talk to Chris about on an AI War forum. As much as I'd love for that to happen, I don't have much control over the programming of the game, that's more Chris and Keith. So, I'll let them know, but be sure to post something about that to them in the AI War forums.

Thanks for all the great compliments! I hope when we release the final music edits you will like the music a lot more. The new "Odyssey" and "Metal" that haven't been released yet are awesome!

: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: MrMud November 01, 2010, 01:15:07 PM
I have to agree with all previous posters that the guitar parts really stick out. While I normally like guitar, I prefer more ambient music when playing sci-fi games and the v3 versions were all better.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Anticept November 01, 2010, 05:06:15 PM
Pablo, now I know why the mp3's you sent me back in april were slightly different from the zenith tracks, I didn't realize either that you had a re-mastered version :P

To be honest, I like a few of the sound effects in the old track, just the first part with the commentary needed to be removed.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Gallant Dragon November 04, 2010, 07:52:42 PM
Wait, I just realized that the music for AI War trailer 3 is completely unique!  And awesome!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 05, 2010, 11:49:03 AM
After spending a good amount of time working through some of these guitar pieces, I think the best solution is to put the electric guitar more inside the mix and make it less of a "solo" instrument. Obviously, the guitar solos will stick out some what, but at least the instrument itself won't be highlighted in the mix. The files have been pushed to the outsides of the mix so they're evenly distributed with all the other instruments. This should make it less "distracting" and still sound bad ass all at once.

I'm sorry for those of you who just don't like the electric guitar in the pieces in general, but this is the best compromise I can think of, especially because I happen to love the electric guitar in there. When they're done, I'll post them so you can hear the new edits.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Salamander November 05, 2010, 01:01:57 PM
I actually love electric guitar. It was just the way it flowed that sounded off in the new versions of a couple of the songs. Warp was such a favorite of mine from the old version that it was especially noticable with the changes.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 05, 2010, 01:37:58 PM
It's true, a lot of the lines are more free rhythm, but it kind of gives it an edge that I like. I hope you guys like the new edits. The guitar should be more tame in most of them (except in "Metal", it's supposed to be the center piece in that song.)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr November 05, 2010, 02:53:21 PM
I've stated my opinion before. Get rid of warp, and I'm happy :D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 05, 2010, 02:54:39 PM
The new edit of Warp is looking more promising, so I'm sorry about that. Just hit next when you get to that track please, or just take it out of your music library. Sorry!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Salamander November 05, 2010, 05:18:22 PM
I've stated my opinion before. Get rid of warp, and I'm happy :D
:P
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Salamander November 05, 2010, 05:20:06 PM
The new edit of Warp is looking more promising, so I'm sorry about that. Just hit next when you get to that track please, or just take it out of your music library. Sorry!
Much appreciation! I would have to rename Warp to something else and replace it just so I could hear it if it was removed.  ;)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Elukka November 10, 2010, 02:48:18 PM
Love the music, Pablo.

My first thought when I heard Warp was "this is cool". I hope it stays in some form.

...If there was a more dynamic music system, that could really help with diversifying the soundtrack. I mean, it's plenty diverse already, but I can see how people can find the transition to tracks like Warp grating in the midst of things like Marisa and Midnight (although I don't). Some nice ambiance (as was mentioned with the lovely Homeworld tracks) when it's calm, something that evokes the feeling of danger when those little raids start coming in, and then some "oh shit we're all gonna to die" music when that 5000 ship AI fleet crosses into your space.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 10, 2010, 02:52:36 PM
That would be incredibly ideal, I agree. And I think the whole point of making the soundtrack diverse was for that very reason, but unfortunately I don't really deal with the coding of the game, so I can't do much except compose the music I'm asked to.

I think if Chris and Keith had a bit more time, they'd be able to find ways to do that, but right now, with a 4 person team we're trying to make an expansion, and there's just so much to do.

Hopefully, if these games start selling the way we'd like, then we'd be able to expand, hire more people, and have more than 4 people working at once haha. Thanks for the input though, I really appreciate it! And believe me, I agree 100%. We just need to get on our feet a little more before we can start adding more stuff.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Elukka November 11, 2010, 09:10:50 AM
I can see why it's not the first priority, but it's nice to know it's something you guys have thought about. :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr November 11, 2010, 09:21:32 AM
Making a dynamic soundtrack involves a lot of work, but would definitely be cool in the future.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 11, 2010, 09:39:02 AM
Well, I'd like to think that this soundtrack is pretty dynamic, but I see what you mean. That being said, the final polished edits are done. I'm loading them into iTunes today, and I'll let you know when then bundle for those will be ready. I'm very happy with how those turned out.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr November 11, 2010, 09:46:57 AM
Nice! Looking forward to it!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 16, 2010, 02:58:32 PM
After a long year of composing and editing, the album is done! "AI War: Fleet Command (Remastered)" is now on sale on iTunes!

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/ai-war-fleet-command-remastered/id404361360

Be sure to check it out!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 17, 2010, 01:32:59 PM
Also, if you're interested in hearing one of the new tracks for "AI War: Light Of The Spire" check out my Facebook Music page, or MySpace.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 November 17, 2010, 02:14:17 PM
PS: I'm sorry if you have to listen to the track through MySpace. This new "Beta" for MySpace that we have to use is absolute crap, and the sound quality sounds like garbage. At least you'll get an idea of what it sounds like. It sounds like the Facebook player is fine though.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Wingsofdomain November 26, 2010, 05:05:55 AM
Hello Pablo Vega!

I am sort of a fan of arcen games and maybe for except gaming, music is my biggest interest. Making music for games is a future dream. However I feel like I want to give you some feedback, but I live in Sweden and may not be the best one in English. So if there's anything you don't understand or that sounds strange just tell me and I may rewrite it xD.

First impression of the music in AI wars was kind of strange. The music didn't feel "space" at all. I did more expect nativ americans waiting on the otherside of the wormholes. However the music IS great, and when I've played awhile I didn't have any problems with nativ americans whatsoever. I can give a lot of admiration for the music in AI wars, aswell as my girlfriend can even though she doesn't even play the game, but that would be boring. What I remember of the music may be a bit old too.

The difference between the original AI wars and Zenith remmenant is big. The music realyl gets better if you get that epansion aswell as the main menu which I noticed someelse on the thread didn't like. I also read that the "We have discovered the Zenith Rememnat" in the main menu would be removed. However that little quote is kind of interesting 'cause I realized when I heard it that AI wars lacks something other space/epic/lazers/RTS games have. Whenever you click on a unit or give 'em a command they SPEAK to you. When your units in AI wars are mute it feels more like you are leading an AI army against another AI army. There's also missing a female voice saying "Command station construction complete" or "Your command station is under attack." like there is in all other games. You may not want to be mainstream but if you actually DID add a voice that told you such stuff, instead of that anoying beeping noise, you would have a better feeling for the game I guess. Why it's nearly always a female voice saying those stuff I don't know though xD. Why not add an unreal tournament voice btw? That would be awesome.

I have been "not playing" for a time now but I will take it up and return with more and better feedback. Thank you for reading.

/Wings Of Domain
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: eRe4s3r November 27, 2010, 04:50:04 AM
Just wanting to say it but - i also want a (soft) female Announcing voice (notice i said voice!) announce important stuff, like "incoming attack wave from AI 1/AI 2" or "power critical" or "Outpost under attack" or "Homeworld under attack" and especially "Warning: AI Threat Level has increased" and "Warning: Massive Enemy Attack detected" hehe - an UT style option to choose additional voices like "KICKASS Evil Emperor" and "SEXY seductress" would get massive bonus points.

Put some filters on it so it sounds nice sci-fi and tada. Whole new immersion level.

In fact - we ought to make a community effort to find the most needed Announcements (stuff that does not happen every minute) and put it together. All it needs is a good freelance VA and some recording time. It wouldn't cost all that much ;)

And its always a female voice because ...... mhh, good question. Maybe females can do the announcing better? ;p

: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr November 27, 2010, 09:18:07 AM
That sounds a lot like Aura, from EVE Online (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k6MauG89E8). She's pretty much the epitome of announcement voices.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Wingsofdomain November 27, 2010, 12:04:51 PM
That sounds a lot like Aura, from EVE Online]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k6MauG89E8]Aura, from EVE Online (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k6MauG89E8). She's pretty much the epitome of announcement voices.

Yeah but that's not much to a KICKASS evil emporer. Just imagine this kind of voice when the AI sends a crossplanet attack against you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wxPTFVNEiE&feature=related   10 seconds in!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr November 27, 2010, 12:14:46 PM
As long as it doesn't say "Holy, holy, holy, holy shit!" I'm good xD
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: RCIX November 27, 2010, 10:04:37 PM
So like the adjutants from Starcraft (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEaY8One1zg)? I would personally prefer one like the Protoss Advisor (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgizA0R6Ncs&feature=related).
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: eRe4s3r November 28, 2010, 02:50:54 AM
Neh, that would require much clearer Voice as AI war is played by many non-english ;p

It doesn't need to be fancy, i was thinking more along the lines of the SINS - Advent voices.

Also, anything non female voice will be muted ;P  ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 December 02, 2010, 03:36:53 PM
A new sneek peak into the AI War: Light Of The Spire soundtrack is now up on my facebook music page and myspace.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr December 02, 2010, 03:43:39 PM
Sounds very nice! I loved the clear synth lead you used around halfway into the song. Nice job!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 December 02, 2010, 03:44:45 PM
Yeah, the synth bells work great for this soundtrack. There is a lot of cello in it as well.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Echo35 December 02, 2010, 08:33:20 PM
I've actually been meaning to ask, I know you had your music on iTunes at one point, but did you ever put up the new stuff?

EDIT: Never mind, found my answer in the AI War forum ><
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Spikey00 December 03, 2010, 12:48:51 PM
Have some comments on the AI War FB page here (http://"http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=178405555519981&id=143457342376")

I love the game, but I will be honest I don't like the soundtrack guys, sorry!

--

i have to agree with jim! the music is kinda off for this kinda game. i don't know what would work, just not that strange classic techno. lol! though i might listen to it separately its just strange in this game.

--

Exactly Kevin, it's not that I think the music is horrible in of its own. It's just that for a space war strategy game I'm expecting more vast orchestra, and epic conquering tunes. Hans Zimmer, James Horner, and Bear McCreary come to mind as to the type of music that goes extremely well with the game... Nevertheless, nothing to fret about considering you can turn off the soundtrack and listen to whatever you wish. And also no offense to Pablo Vega, he's not bad.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 December 07, 2010, 08:32:44 PM
Well, you can't please everyone. Thanks for sharing the comments.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Wingsofdomain December 20, 2010, 06:31:50 AM
I like the music. Although I don't like the new versions of the older soundtracks. I like the new soundtrack which I think is from Light of the spire. However is there anyway to get the old versions? :P

And well.....if someone made a fan made soundtrack? Is there any possibility, it would be added to the game? :P
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr December 20, 2010, 11:31:57 AM
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I personally love the soundtrack! Loved it from day one. In fact, the very first intro music was one of the very reasons I really sat down with the game.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: snrub_guy December 23, 2010, 06:39:26 AM
Hi there Pablo!

I've actually been meaning to start a thread in the AI war segment about the music, but seeing as I just discovered this one, I'll say it here: I genuinely really like the music in AI war, and I think it's getting better over time as well. I don't know the names of the tracks, but when the zenith remnant came out, I was blown away- especially be the epic organ piece. I'm also enjoying the slightly quieter piano tracks you've done recently- I think they actually add an interesting atmosphere to the game- sort of the serenity of empty space etc. Punctuated with the "heavier" tracks, the soundtrack really shines. Can't wait to hear more.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 January 03, 2011, 10:21:32 AM
Hello friends,

 Well, I'm back after the holiday break and ready to start a completely new soundtrack for Alden Ridge. It's going to be pretty awesome (especially for Mod track fans, aka music from the original bad ass games like Mario Bros, etc.). We're going to bring back a retro sound for this next one, and I'll keep you updated on how that's going.

I really appreciate the comments about the music, and I've had such an amazing time putting them together. With the New Year comes a new sound, and I can't wait to share it with all of you. Thanks again, and keep a look out for more updates.

Happy New Year!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: SalientBlue January 16, 2011, 01:05:09 AM
I love the AI War soundtrack.  Most soundtracks for space strategy games you hear are mostly along the lines of epic symphonic pieces, but AI War's is mostly subdued and melancholy.  This is really fitting, because AI War is pretty melancholy game when you get down to it.  The huge battle that warranted epic symphonies already happened, and you lost it.  Badly.  Most of the human race is dead, and the thousands of ships lost during the game just stretches it thinner and thinner.  The game has a very tired, regretful, but ultimately still hopeful feeling about it.  It's one of the things that really makes the game stand out to me, and I feel that your music captures that feeling very well.

Also, I haven't seen it given much love in this thread, but one of my favorites is Birth of the Golems.  The second half never fails to get my foot tapping, though I thought it was one of the few that didn't really benefit from the remaster.  I liked the pseudo-electric guitar melody near the end, and the switch to the organ, while not bad, doesn't really seem to fit as well with the rest of the song in my opinion.  The remaster did wonders for the others, though.  Marisa didn't really stand out to me before, but now it's up there with Midnight.

The only song I dislike is Neinzul's Title Theme.  The trumpet part is grating, and the rest of it is pretty forgettable.  It had a hard act to follow after Zenith's Title Theme, but even so, it's pretty below the bar set by the rest of your music.  Still, only one or two bad songs out of 28 is great.  Whenever Chris announces a new expansion, one of my first thoughts is always "Awesome!  More music!"

Finally, this may be a long shot, but piano has always been my favorite instrument, and the piano tracks you write are brilliant.  Do you happen to have sheet music for your songs?  I would love to be able to play your stuff, especially Midnight, Marisa, or the Zenith Title Theme.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Mánagarmr January 16, 2011, 02:56:20 AM
Oh! I used to track with Fasttracker 2 and was heavily into the tracking scene a few years back. I'm sure I'm going to love that soundtrack.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 January 20, 2011, 04:53:41 PM
Again, thanks for the great compliments!

Unfortunately I don't have any of the sheet music right now, but once I get a moment free from composition, I'll look into putting it together. It shouldn't be very hard.

Thanks again and I'll keep you guys posted about the new music updates!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Entrenched Homperson January 20, 2011, 06:47:02 PM
Whats the one of the ones from Fleet Command, with the chorus of voices? I like that one alot. I'd make that the game music if I could lol. It's sets a cool tone for gameplay :D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: SalientBlue January 23, 2011, 05:46:36 PM
Again, thanks for the great compliments!

Unfortunately I don't have any of the sheet music right now, but once I get a moment free from composition, I'll look into putting it together. It shouldn't be very hard.

Thanks again and I'll keep you guys posted about the new music updates!

Awesome!  I can't wait!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Red Spot January 28, 2011, 07:13:23 PM
First of all, incase you where not yet aware of this: Your music rocks .. well actually it doesnt ... errr .. you get my point (I hope) :D
Do you have any more of your work available online/in stores (I dont have facebook, so cant look there)? I think you also could do very well in the lounge-scene, which I really enjoy during the weekend/etc .. just a little hint. ;)


Was just going over the memberlist to see when the forum was started and came across some 'newbie', perhaps you know him?
http://www.arcengames.com/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=2
 ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Spikey00 February 02, 2011, 03:25:01 PM
Red:  http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/pablo-vega/id319019203
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Red Spot February 03, 2011, 12:49:22 PM
Thanks, now I just need to figure out which songs I like most ... or just puchase the full collection :D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: danando February 21, 2011, 08:39:55 AM
ure music is awesome! for ai war ;D
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 March 02, 2011, 02:46:44 PM
Thank you all for the compliments again!

Haha, yes, that "newbie" is my brother Carlos Vega who did some beta play for the original AI War: Fleet Command.

I am so excited for you guys to hear the soundtrack for A Valley Without Wind. It is really coming along strong!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 March 08, 2011, 04:37:48 PM
If you're interested about the process of making that classic 8-bit Nintendo sound in Logic, check out:

http://www.arcengames.com/forums/index.php/topic,8412.0.html
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: tootboot May 10, 2011, 07:46:26 PM
I really like the music from AI War.  A couple of the compositions remind me of music from Blizzard games, which is a good thing since they tend to have striking music.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 July 14, 2011, 03:39:23 PM
Thank you!

The "Light Of The Spire" Soundtrack is going to be on sale on iTunes in a month or two. I'm pretty excited about the music in that expansion in particular.
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: getter77 August 13, 2011, 09:53:51 AM
Pretty random, but I gotta ask:

PVega, have you any notions kicking around towards your own renditions/styling/covers/etc of any Public Domain or such tracks for AVWW?   For whatever reason while watching the first pre-beta long trailer this morning, I couldn't help but think "This is good stuff.  I wonder what kind of chippy/techno take on Ravel's Bolero he could wrangle?  The tempo seems to fit the theme of the game well and it'd probably make for a good (combat) trailer contender."

In general, "classics" evolved into (post)modern would seem uncannily appropriate for the game's setting outright.

Thoughts?
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: PVega8 August 15, 2011, 11:10:02 AM
I think the idea is awesome! That being said, I have a feeling that most of the music (at least leading up to BETA) is going to be completely original.

After we get this BETA release out, and we start working on the main release stuff, that'll definitely be something I'll consider. It's been awesome getting to work with these kinds of sounds, and re-arranging some classics in this style would be very cool. Thanks for letting me know!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: getter77 August 15, 2011, 06:38:03 PM
Sounds great man, looking forward to a potential "future Bolero" and who knows what else with your spin on it down the line further.  Oddly enough, the Wii game Little King's Story had nearly their entire soundtrack as Public Domain pieces---the intro outright is full-on classical Bolero.

Digging the originals thus far!
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: konstantin September 09, 2011, 09:53:48 PM
so story: i made my friend listen to some tracks i made using fruity loop and he reccommended introducing them to an indie game development company, and he gave me a link to this one, i can give you one (or more) of the tracks i made as a sample to see if you want anything to do with them.

I use fruity loops 9 xxl producers edition, i then export to an mp3 file
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: Lokarin August 23, 2012, 04:05:18 PM
Ya, I really like the music in AI War and A Valley Without Wind.  It's the kind of stuff I'd want in my own games even.



(Can't necro a sticky, nya~!) /fan
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: alexaclaire11 July 19, 2013, 05:51:26 AM
 :)nice!!! Pablo Vega

I really enjoy this music....  :)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: kaje001 December 30, 2013, 11:11:59 PM
Pablo Vega, your music in AI War is amazing! really...

You've mentioned a bit earlier (two years ago), that maybe you would release some sheets if you have time. Did you find the time? I would really enjoy to play some of songs on the piano.
please...
;)
: Re: Arcen Games: Music/Sound
: stuffedanimals December 23, 2014, 01:33:30 AM
Music is an important part in a game; it gives game players power and energy to win; It can also comfort them when fail. We game players need the music!