Sound of History

Friday – Nov 20, 2026
16:00 - 18:00

tba

Digital game worlds on various platforms offer players rich historical experiences. At first glance, objects and narratives primarily signal the historical context. However, if you listen closely, you will notice that development studios also use sound to convey a sense of historical spaces. Through their dedication, developers connect environments, such as a harbor in ancient Greece, battlefields of the world wars, and the Carpathian Mountains in early modern Transylvania, with players' emotions. Sounds, music, and ambient noises form "soundscapes" that players can experience, much like landscapes.

During the training, participants will gain an overview of various historical periods through specific digital games. Quotes from interviews illustrate the effort that game studios put into creating soundscapes. Historical soundscapes and atmospheres are also a focus of historical scholarship. Pre-recorded videos and on-site interactive stations allow participants to explore examples independently. Since acoustic impressions are subjective, ample opportunity is given for participants to discuss their personal perceptions. To conclude the session, participants will work in small groups to design a historical situation as a soundscape using the components they have learned about.

To reserve a spot in the workshops and training courses, please sign up in advance via the registration link (coming soon). Any remaining spots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis at the event.

Participation is free of charge.

Copyright: Miguel Ferraz Araújo