Real Sound In A Fantasy World

         In light of all the recent acts of violence going on around the United States, more and more questions arise on what is causing this rise in violence. Video games and film are often first to be called on for it’s effect on children. People have stated that both the film and game industry is becoming more violent with its every increasing realism.

         Sound designers are pushing the boundaries on realism. Each new game or film tries to perfectly recreate a specific sound. But as we all know, film and games exist in fantasy and portray some amazing over the top visuals and sounds. The sound effects have to be larger than life, if not then no one would want to play the game of watch the movie.

Battlefield 3

Batman: Arkham City

         Take Battlefield 3 for example. Many have said it has the most realistic gun and war environment sound effect, and they do. Through out my military career, I have fired various weapons and have been around all types of military vehicles. The in-depth level of sound design applied to this game is an astonishing feat. Battlefield 3’s sound team really took the time to ensure everything sounded right. But like I said before, it’s in a fantasy setting and these sounds have been beefed up to give them more feel. I can assure you, that yes, a Desert Eagle does indeed produce a loud and concussive bang. In games and film however, that weapon always sounds more like a cannon going off that would shake the pictures off the wall.

        Batman: Arkham City is another example. When the player’s main way taking down an opponent is Batman’s hand to hand combat skills, each hit and bone-breaking sound is drastically over-exaggerated. But it has to be; no one wants to hear a real punch (which is reality sounds like punching a fresh piece of steak…try it)

       Realism is want consumers want into today’s world. Nothing should be brought down because some fear that a child might grow up and try to mimic or become part of the fantasy that is film and game. There are plenty of warning labels and consumer reports that warn parents of graphic simulated violence. It is up to the parents to show their child that what they see on the screen is not a real depiction of the world and not everything is solved with a weapon or fist.

      To strip away the realistic sounds from a game or movie, would amount to removing the engine from a Bugatti Veyron and replacing it with a Vespa Scooter’s engine. Sure, it’ll get you places, but that’s not the real reason you bought one.