Exploring Storytelling in Monument Valley 3 Through Soundscapes

Sure thing.

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Let me tell you about this wild ride creating the audio for Monument Valley 3. You ever think about how sound can tell a story? Yeah, me neither, until Todd Baker and Lucie Treacher had this brainwave—turning every sound into part of Noor’s journey. Like, what!?

We didn’t want just a background soundtrack, nope. This sound had to be part of the game, stitched into the very fabric of it all. Okay, sounds dramatic, but hey, it worked! Sound design got nods from folks like D.I.C.E Awards and Mobile Game Awards. Kind of a big deal, no?

Both Todd and Lucie were on a mission to make Monument Valley 3 an audio experience you wouldn’t forget – like, plug those headphones in and get lost. Imagine each level as a new soundscape, its own musical world. I know, kind of trippy, right?

Oh man, and the instruments! Bansuri, Gamelan, Kora—talk about world sounds. Mix those in with a string section, you’ve got a global orchestra of awesomeness accompanying Noor on her twisty-turny path.

Now, interactive sound—that’s where things get even crazier. Playing the game means playing the music too, sorta feels like you’re conducting in real-time. How cool is that? It made maps feel alive, like water was both this chaotic and calming presence. They recorded actual water sound libraries, turning drips into melody. Every splash counted, seriously.

And talk about cinematic vibes! Every move Noor makes hits a note in this vast, living score. It’s all about feeling like you’re part of a grand composition, you know? Some parts are inspired by origami, unfolding like paper – even the music gets artsy with crinkling effects and lo-fi textures. I mean, who thinks of this stuff?

Then there’s this emotional weight carried through the music. Noor’s story of grief, growth, and hope is mirrored in every note. When the puzzles get emotionally intense, so does the soundtrack, rising like a symphony. Sometimes it’s about the silence too – breathy flutes and sparse strings letting you soak it all in.

Honestly, it’s worth walking through with headphones on, to really dive into those moments. Monument Valley 3, imagine it, as a whole sensory journey, designed to mimic life’s moods. But hey, don’t just take my word for it, it’s out July 22 on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. Even got a vinyl for those serious collectors out there.

This isn’t just background noise. It’s storytelling, disguised as sound, urging you to piece together Noor’s tale. And hey, maybe discover a bit of your own along the way. Adventure awaits! Will you listen?

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Hope you enjoyed my chaotic rambling.