For most of history, the world stayed almost the same. Humans slowly started pushing the boundaries of what was possible with early inventions and by sharing knowledge through writing. Later, with the Industrial Revolution powered by fossil fuels and the discovery of electricity, things began to change very quickly. This progress brought both good and bad changes.
Now, we’re entering a new revolution, and most people don’t even realize it. It’s the breakthrough in AI development that is driving this change. AI is advancing rapidly, able to use our collective knowledge better than we can. This means it will keep growing at an incredible pace.
What does this mean for me? In just a few years (if we’re being optimistic), sound effects and music (especially background music) will be generated by AI and will sound good enough for most game developers. Yes, big companies will still hire humans, but many small and medium-sized studios, as well as indie developers, will turn to AI. I imagine that game creation engines will soon be deeply integrated with AI, because no one will want to be left behind. Developers will be able to generate music and sound effects instantly and procedurally, create immersive soundscapes, and much more, all using AI.
Not only that, but people with little knowledge of sound design will be able to create their own packs easily and sell them. The industry will become overcrowded and too competitive for many to make a living from it.
Some people are excited about this future, others are angry or indifferent. And me? Honestly, I’m a bit scared. I want to be excited, and I’d love to see the amazing things that AI could bring. But given human nature and the state of the world, it’s hard to trust that we won’t mess it up. As individuals, we can be brilliant. In small, focused groups, we do great things. But as a collective mass, we can be reckless and destructive.
My only regret is that I didn’t start earlier in life, to build a stronger career and secure my future. Just two years ago, I thought maybe I could pass on my knowledge to my kids, and they could do even better than I have with sound design and music. I’m not so sure about that anymore.
With all that said, I’ll keep being productive and doing what I love for as long as I can. I’ll adapt, and I promise you, no one is going to go hungry! Stay safe and keep up the good work!
Mate,
Cyberwave Orchestra
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