Indie Game Sound Design: From MIDI to Full Orchestral

Jason Coleman's 15-year journey through game audio evolution

The MIDI Era (2005-2010)

Learning constraints: 16-channel limit taught melody economy. Each sound had to pull triple duty.

Digital Revolution (2010-2015)

Introduction of Pro Tools changed everything. Suddenly there was no technical limit to think about.

Current Orchestral Workflow (2015-Present)

• Composer: MIDI mockup with EastWest samples
• Recording: 40-piece orchestra at Abbey Road
• Mixing: Dolby Atmos spatial audio for VR games

Listen: Can't Turn It Off