ID:152126
 
Do sounds make much difference in playing a BYOND online multiplayer game? I mean, in some games, sounds make the game really cool.
Done well? Of course. Half-assed? Of course not.

Sound can be as visceral and important as the developer wants to spend time making it. It can also be irritating and obstructing if said developer just half-asses it. That's basically true of any aspect of gaming, though.

Sound for the sake of sound rarely makes it beyond a preferential opinion, but if you include it as a core part of your game, it can make all the difference. It's certainly more of a subtle factor than visuals usually play. Footsteps, a small sound effect of warning a second before something terrible happens, varied background music or ambiance depending on the mood or status of the player... yeah, it can certainly help.
Sounds add a new level of believability to a game, even if the game itself isn't realistic. A perfect example are the games Knytt, Knytt Stories, and Within A Deep Forest, all by a developer (not on BYOND) named Nifflas. They all have beautiful sound work (from the Free Sound Project, for sound at least) and its one of my favorite parts of the game. Note that all three games are wonderful experiences, just by themselves.
Captaincqy wrote:
Do sounds make much difference in playing a BYOND online multiplayer game? I mean, in some games, sounds make the game really cool.

Short answer: Yes. Duh!

Long answer: Good sound is crucial to a good game. Most games need at least some sound, especially if it's in any way action-oriented. Board games and such might get away without it, but in general, sound beats no sound. That said, it's possible to screw it up by using an effect that's just plain annoying. Choosing appropriate sound effects is best, adequate will do, but don't pick bad ones.

Lummox JR