In a talk led by audio designer Adam Schneider, we’ll take a detailed look at the process of creating unique, larger-than-life sound design for the science fiction genre using real world examples from the most recent XCOM games. The talk is intended to provide valuable insight for experienced sound designers, newcomers to sound design, and composers looking to bridge the gap. We’ll start by breaking down design concepts and theories, and then move onto topics including layering techniques, incorporating synthesizers, and how aspects of music composition can be utilized when creating sound effects.

Adam Schneider is a Sound Designer and a Composer with ten years of experience in the video game industry. He has worked on franchises such as XCOM, Skylanders, Marvel, Transformers, and Guitar Hero. He is currently a full-time employee of Firaxis Games and most recently provided music and sound design to the XCOM 2: War of the Chosen - Tactical Legacy Pack, as well as the accompanying XCOM Legacy soundtrack.