Have you ever noticed that listening to music while playing video games has a direct impact on your behavior? Whether it’s the tone, beat, lyrics, or melody, the kind of music you listen to while gaming can have a deep effect on how you play. Music can either bring out the best in us or the worst. It can encourage us to be more competitive and even raise our skill level, as well as provide a relaxing environment that reduces stress and anxiety.
Depending on our mood and personal preferences at any given time, different types of music can have wildly different effects on how we play video games. Here are five ways music influences our behavior while playing video games, as well as tips on how to use it to our advantage.
Focus on the Gameplay
Depending on the type of music, it can actually help us narrow our focus on the gameplay by blocking out environmental distractions. This can be helpful when you are playing in a loud environment or simply want to block out some of the surrounding noise due to general discomfort.
When we focus on game sounds and music, it’s less likely that we’ll be distracted by other noises around us. This can be extremely helpful when trying to play in a loud environment, such as when your friends are watching television nearby. This focus can also help reduce feelings of anxiety and make us feel more comfortable when gaming alone in a quiet house.
Playing Games with Competitive Elements
There are many games that encourage a high level of competitiveness, often to the point of it being a core pillar of the gameplay. Think about sports games like basketball or even first-person shooters like Call of Duty or real money games at Trustly Casino. There is an inherent level of competition present in these games, which can often spill over into real life depending on who is playing.
These types of games are best played with music that is intense. Music with a strong beat, a fast tempo, and a loud volume can trigger an emotional response in the player, as well as their opponent. All of this can come together to create an aggressive environment that can increase focus and drive.
It Enhances Emotional Experience
There is an entire genre of gaming music that focuses on enhancing the emotional experience for players. Soundtracks like Halo’s main theme, Tetris theme, and Final Fantasy: Prologue is designed to pull players into the immersive experience of the game, making it feel more real.
If the game you are playing is supposed to be a dramatic and intense experience, this can help you feel more involved and attached to the story. This type of music is also great for gamers who prefer to play solo and don’t want to be disturbed by loud music that can disrupt immersion. This kind of music is meant to add to the experience, so it won’t be annoying or distracting while you play.
Keeps Players Alert and Comfortable
If you prefer to play games with louder music, this can help keep players alert and focused on the gameplay. This is especially important in multiplayer games, where an individual or team may be tempted to take a break or even fall asleep during play. This type of music can be loud and fast-paced, but it’s not necessarily designed to enhance the experience.
Instead, it should keep players alert and prevent them from becoming too comfortable and relaxed. This can be great for competitive gaming to keep players on their toes and feeling alert, as well as for co-op games where everyone needs to be at their best.
A Sense of Completion and Celebration When We Win
Finally, the type of music that you listen to while gaming can also have an effect on how you emotionally respond to a victory. Depending on the type of game, you can choose music that has a celebratory or triumphant vibe. If the game is a long and difficult campaign, you can choose music that provides a sense of closure and accomplishment when you win.
While it may seem like an unnecessary addition, a few songs at the end can make all the difference in how you feel when you win. It can help bring the campaign to a close and make it feel like an even bigger accomplishment. It’s also a great way to celebrate with friends and provide a memorable experience for everyone involved.