Renowned game audio designer, Gary Miranda, has left his mark on a plethora of games, ranging from the popular battle royale game, Fortnite, to the beloved Ratchet & Clank series. His work encompasses a wide array of skills, from capturing sounds at shooting ranges to meticulously crafting UI sounds with modular synthesizers. As the founder of Injected Senses Audio, Miranda's company specializes in assisting game studios with sound design, editing, and recording, working closely with developers throughout the process.
During an interview with Game Rant, Miranda draws upon his 15 years of industry experience to shed light on the evolution of game sound, especially in Marvel games, where he has been a frequent contributor. He shares his thoughts on what defines exceptional game sound, identifies games with noteworthy audio, and provides insights for aspiring game audio professionals. The interview has been condensed for clarity and brevity.
When reflecting on the changes in game audio over the past 15 years, Miranda notes the significant shift from reliance on outboard gear to the increased use of digital tools and software like Reaper and Nuendo. He also emphasizes the industry's transition from commercial studios to home setups, highlighting the role of platforms like YouTube in enabling aspiring professionals to learn and grow rapidly.
Looking towards the future of game audio, Miranda underscores the growing integration of technical and creative aspects, fostering a more collaborative environment where individuals with strong technical skills also possess creative abilities. He anticipates a trend towards more procedural approaches, allowing for a focus on creative endeavors while technology evolves.
Having contributed to Marvel games from different eras, Miranda discusses the evolving landscape, noting the shift from direct tie-ins with movies to distinct universes within the Marvel brand. This separation has allowed for more creative freedom in audio design, enabling teams to explore unique interpretations of familiar elements.
Miranda acknowledges the challenges of capturing sounds that may not directly translate to in-game audio, emphasizing the importance of finding analogous sounds to evoke the desired effect. He also expresses a preference for abstract sound design, particularly in superhero-themed projects, and finds inspiration in creating weather-related sounds.
Discussing the complexities of UI sound design, Miranda highlights the subjective nature of these sounds and the emphasis on eliciting specific emotions from users. He embraces the challenge and continues to explore experimental approaches, particularly through modular synthesis.
As an outsourcing company, Miranda's team collaborates closely with developers, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and a shared passion for creating exceptional game audio. He emphasizes the importance of mutual collaboration and the value of diverse perspectives in the creative process.
When asked about inspiring sound design in games, Miranda is effusive in his praise, citing Blizzard's work on titles like World of Warcraft and Diablo, as well as the iconic sound design in the Star Wars franchise. He expresses admiration for the dedication and craftsmanship evident in these projects.
For aspiring game audio professionals, Miranda emphasizes the value of continuous learning, open-mindedness, and networking. He encourages individuals to explore various paths within the industry, leveraging experiences and embracing opportunities for growth. Miranda also underscores the supportive and welcoming nature of the game audio community.
Reflecting on pivotal moments in his career, Miranda recalls a turning point during his involvement in dialogue recording for Star Wars: The Old Republic, where he realized his deep passion for audio design and its critical role in gaming. This experience propelled him to seek a more immersive engagement in the creative process.
In evaluating game sound, Miranda values subtlety and attention to detail, emphasizing the importance of creating immersive experiences without overwhelming the player. He specifically praises the subtlety and meticulousness of sound design in Spider-Man 2.
As the interview draws to a close, Miranda extends an invitation for aspiring professionals to engage with his team, emphasizing their openness to mentorship and support for newcomers in the industry.
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