On Beeps and Sweeps

December 30th, 2009

WaveForms

Having completed the initial versions for major graphical components in my 8-Bit engine, I turn to the equally important and far more mysterious world of 8-bit audio. This is something of a difficult jump in experience for me. I have relied upon 3rd party tools like FMOD for some time, but it’s time to dig in and get some knowledge of Audio Synthesis. I found a few websites and resources to get me started.

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On Video Output

December 18th, 2009

 EBG Screenshot from December 18, 2009

Whoah. I just implemented AVI output in my 8-bit engine. And now I can show a video. Or rather, you can download one. I’m not 100% sure every detail of my file is accurate and compatible with all video programs, but Windows Media Player plays it just fine. I tried it in a video editing program, and it could only read the first frame. If you experience difficulty playing the file, or if you have any advice on properly formed and formatted AVI files, let me know. Leave a comment or email me. In the mean time, enjoy an approximately 10 second video showing my engine in action.

Download the Video

Background Images © Elena Brossa.

On International Communication

December 14th, 2009

 Banana Nut Bread

Whoah. I just had an international business meeting. I’m still getting my feet wet in the world of professional game development and production. And yet, life moves me forward faster than I realize sometimes. Just got done with a video conference to Taiwan! Technology just makes everyone so accessible. That, and having friends who are fluent in other languages. I’m so thankful I have both. International Communication Win.

Props go out to Skype for awesome connectivity, to Rick Lai for being professional, my pal and fellow Full Sail alum Scott Farmer, and my boss Tim for getting up early with me to have the meeting. Also, to my lovely wife Nina for the fresh banana nut bread this morning! So good.