The Role of Soundscapes in Storytelling: Monument Valley 3’s Approach

### Summary

Look, here’s the deal. Monument Valley 3 isn’t just about playing a game; it’s about diving headfirst into this audible wonderland where every move you make creates sound. Todd Baker, this audio genius, talks about using music to explore Noor’s emotions. Oh, and mark your calendars for July 22, 2025. That’s when you can grab it on Xbox and, for those who’re into vinyl, there’s a soundtrack you can pre-order.

You know, talking about Monument Valley 3 makes me think—what even is “game audio”? I’ll be honest, I’ve spent way too many hours with games where sound seems like wallpaper. But here, with ustwo games, the goal was to mash it so deep into the experience, it’s like… a painter mixing colors. It got them these fancy nominations. Quite legit.

So, Todd teamed up with Lucie Treacher. They didn’t just score the game; they smooshed interactive sound into it. It’s something you need headphones for. Trust me, I tried it without and nope—doesn’t do it justice.

#### Revolutionizing Sound

Here’s a thing—when they made Monument Valley and its sequel, it was all chill vibes. But Todd? He just ditched the old tunes and went wild. It was like having a blank sketchbook to scribble nonsense or genius—depends on the mood. Not revisiting those mellow tracks allowed him to play around. Every game level got its own bop. Picture this: your emotions, the level design, they’re all jiving together in this sound landscape. Yeah, it’s like walking through a museum where every room sings a different tune.

I dunno why, but those global instrument choices resonate with me—Bansuri, Gamelan, Kora. It’s like a world tour for your ears without leaving your room. They snagged emotions, culture, and bam—the world of Noor unfolds.

#### Sound Evolving with Your Moves

Interactive—the whole sound landscape is fluid. It’s strange, but cool? Move a block here, spin a tower there, and it’s a symphony. Granular synthesis, virtual instruments… big words, right? But what’s neat is that architecture in the game is basically an instrument. Twist some puzzles, and the music shifts. Like you’re jamming while puzzling. Didn’t think sound could morph like this. Water? It’s not just there—Todd, he got all techie with recording rivers, taps, and lakes. I thought water just… flowed, you know?

#### Tangible Sound Art

Lemme pause here—every touch, it’s like playing music. It sounds like the game is alive. Lucie and Todd? They really put work into it. Even turning a gear, it’s musical. Weird, but it works.

The whole team was tight-knit. Sound had to mesh with the story, the darn puzzles, everything. I remember this one bit—paper and origami. The music felt homemade, like someone crafting right there, complete with paper rustlings.

But what really touched me is how sound echoes Noor’s journey—grieving, yet hopeful. Strings, flutes—they create this space for thought. Puzzle moments, they make you feel alive. Literally, every sound seems to just “get” where the story is going.

Please, grab some headphones. Just trust me, it’s an audio labyrinth that’s supposed to immerse you completely. Monument Valley 3 encourages you to listen with your soul, not just your ears. July 22 should be like a holiday for your auditory senses.

And yeah, it’s not just about gaming. It’s about how sound tells a story, adds texture, and wraps you up in opportunity and discovery. There, I’m done gushing.

Grab Monument Valley 3 this July on Xbox, where it’s optimized as if you’re stepping into this widescreen, audio-rich adventure. Seascapes, mysterious lights, and challenges await Noor and you. Guide her through, solve the secrets. Heck, listen to that album on vinyl. Dive in—both visually and sonically—because it’s not just a game, it’s an experience.