Games With Sound Design Pulled from Nature Recordings

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Immersive audio brings digital worlds to life, making them feel incredibly real for players. Game developers often record sounds in the actual environments – like the rush of a river or the rustling of leaves – to make the game feel authentic. These realistic sounds not only enhance the experience but also subtly guide players as they explore. Here are some games that use natural soundscapes to create truly memorable audio experiences.

‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ (2018)

To make the world of Red Dead Redemption feel truly alive, Rockstar Games built an incredibly detailed soundscape. The team recorded authentic sounds – like horses’ hooves on different terrains – to ensure realism while riding. They also varied bird calls based on the time of day and where you were in the game. This creates a dynamic environment where you can almost ‘hear’ the wildlife interacting, even without seeing them.

‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’ (2017)

The team building the game really wanted to make Hyrule’s wilderness feel huge and empty, so they paid close attention to the natural sounds – what they call ‘biophony.’ They even recorded sounds like footsteps on real ice and sand to make each surface feel unique. The wind sounds change depending on how high up Link is and what the weather is like. All these details work together to create a world that feels both massive and lonely.

‘Ghost of Tsushima’ (2020)

To create a truly immersive experience, Sucker Punch Productions went to Japan to record the natural sounds of Tsushima Island. They even captured the calls of local birds, like the black-naped oriole, to make the environment feel realistic. The game uses wind as a way to help players navigate, and the sound changes depending on the surroundings – like blowing through tall grass or thick woods. This attention to detail in the audio design really helps bring the game’s historical setting to life.

‘The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’ (2015)

The sound designers wanted the game’s audio to feel raw and natural, mirroring the gritty world of the Continent. They achieved this by including realistic sounds like trees creaking in the wind, leaves rustling, and a rich soundscape built from recordings of European forests. One particularly striking element is the wind howling on the Skellige Isles, which adds a lot to the game’s atmosphere.

‘Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice’ (2017)

Ninja Theory used advanced 3D audio to realistically recreate the experience of psychosis in their game. They captured sounds with special microphones to mimic how a person hears during a psychotic episode, creating a truly unsettling effect. Rain and thunder are used to make players feel trapped and claustrophobic, even in wide-open spaces. The audio design intentionally blurs the boundaries between what’s real and what’s happening inside the character’s mind.

‘Horizon Forbidden West’ (2022)

Guerrilla Games created a rich soundscape where the noises of machines and nature work together seamlessly. They combined mechanical sounds with recordings of real environments to make the robotic creatures sound realistic. Sounds like rivers and waterfalls have detailed layers that change depending on how close Aloy is. Each environment, from dense jungles to dry deserts, has its own unique sound based on real places on Earth.

‘The Last of Us Part II’ (2020)

Naughty Dog prioritizes realistic sound design to build suspense and immerse players in a challenging survival experience. The team meticulously recorded sounds like rainfall on various surfaces to create a believable and reactive weather system. A player’s breathing and footsteps aren’t just sounds – they interact with the environment and can alert enemies to their location. In the quiet, overgrown ruins of Seattle, the game emphasizes how nature is taking back what was once its own.

‘Forza Horizon 5’ (2021)

To create a realistic soundscape, Playground Games recorded the natural sounds of various environments in Mexico around the clock. These recordings let the game accurately recreate the echoes of places like canyons and jungles. Even the sound of a car’s tires changes depending on the road surface – wet asphalt sounds different than dirt. This dedication to authentic environmental audio helps make driving in the game feel incredibly real.

‘The Hunter: Call of the Wild’ (2017)

Okay, so this hunting game is seriously different. It’s all about listening. Forget spotting scopes – you have to learn to recognize animals just by their calls and the sounds they make moving around. It’s tough, but super immersive! And it’s not just about hearing any sound, either. The wind actually affects how far you can hear things, and how animals can smell you. Seriously, every little snap of a twig or rustle of leaves could be the key to a successful hunt. You really have to pay attention to everything!

‘Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End’ (2016)

This adventure takes place in exciting, far-off locations, and the sound design really brings them to life. Realistic recordings of insects and birds create immersive jungle environments that feel unique to each area. The sound of the ocean – like waves crashing against rocks – matches the dramatic visuals perfectly. All of these details combine to create a high-quality audio experience that complements the game’s stunning graphics.

‘Microsoft Flight Simulator’ (2020)

This simulator creates realistic weather and atmospheric conditions worldwide using actual data. It features a sophisticated audio engine with sounds of air moving over aircraft materials at different heights. Rain sounds dynamically change based on impact with the windshield during flight, and ground noise accurately reflects the environment of each airport.

‘Green Hell’ (2019)

The Amazon rainforest feels incredibly real thanks to immersive sound design recorded directly in the jungle. To stay alive, players need to carefully listen for the sounds of predators like rattlesnakes and jaguars. When players are stressed, the game uses unsettling and warped natural sounds to confuse them. Realistic rainstorms also create chaos, masking sounds and forcing players to focus on what they see.

‘Subnautica’ (2014)

Sound in the underwater environment was recorded with special microphones called hydrophones, which capture how sound moves through water. The sounds of bubbles and currents create a calming but lonely feeling. The frightening roars of the large creatures are meant to evoke a deep, instinctive fear in the dark ocean. This sound design isn’t just atmospheric—it’s crucial for players to find their way and stay alive in these strange waters.

‘Death Stranding’ (2019)

Hideo Kojima deliberately used natural sounds to highlight how alone the main character, Sam Porter Bridges, feels. The wind blowing through the game’s Iceland-like environments is a constant presence during his long journeys. Realistic sounds of footsteps on different surfaces like moss and volcanic rock were captured to make each step feel real. This quiet atmosphere makes the sudden appearance of strange, otherworldly creatures even more shocking.

‘Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ (2020)

To create a peaceful island vibe, Nintendo carefully recorded unique sounds for different weather conditions. For example, rain sounds different when it hits a tent versus a metal roof or an umbrella. They also varied the wind sounds based on the season and how many leaves were on the trees. These small details all work together to make the game relaxing and immersive.

‘Far Cry Primal’ (2016)

Ubisoft designed a prehistoric world where nature feels powerful and untamed. They crafted a realistic soundscape by combining recordings of ancient languages with the sounds of wild animals. Lush forests are filled with the buzzing of insects and the calls of birds, but these sounds quickly fade when a predator approaches. Without the noise of modern technology, the natural sounds of the environment truly stand out.

‘Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’ (2020)

The game’s Norway and England environments come alive with realistic sounds from the period. You’ll hear chilling winds and the sounds of snow to capture the cold, and a variety of wildlife noises to reflect the natural world of the Dark Ages. The audio team recorded sounds in the real world to make the game feel old, wild, and free from modern technology.

‘Battlefield 1’ (2016)

DICE is well-known for its immersive audio design, particularly the ‘War Tapes’ setting which focuses on gritty realism. The game features incredibly detailed sound effects – from the mud squelching underfoot to the changing weather – all recorded in real environments. You can even hear birds taking flight before explosions. This combination of peaceful natural sounds and the harshness of war creates a powerful emotional experience while playing.

‘Hunt: Showdown’ (2019)

This game focuses on using sound to find and avoid enemies. It’s an ‘extraction shooter’ where listening for subtle cues – like footsteps or bird calls – is key to survival. The game takes place in a murky swamp filled with realistic sounds like buzzing insects and animal noises, and players need to be careful because any sound could indicate danger.

‘Shadow of the Tomb Raider’ (2018)

As a fan, I was really blown away by the sound design in the Peruvian jungle levels. It wasn’t just background noise – it felt alive. The team did an amazing job of creating a dense, layered soundscape that really matched the environment. You could hear monkeys and birds high up in the trees, and even the sense of jaguars moving around in the undergrowth. Apparently, they actually recorded real sounds from the South American jungle to make it authentic! It all adds up to this incredibly immersive and, honestly, a bit claustrophobic atmosphere, which makes the survival aspects of the game so much more intense and believable.

‘Sea of Thieves’ (2018)

Rare developed a realistic ocean sound environment that responds to how the waves move. They recorded the sounds of actual wooden ships straining against the sea to create an authentic experience. The direction of the wind also provides audio clues, helping players optimize their sails for speed. This creates an immersive, exciting adventure where the ocean sounds are just as crucial as the graphics.

‘Alien: Isolation’ (2014)

The game’s sound design, set on a space station, uses natural, organic recordings to build tension and fear. Sounds of animals and even crushed vegetables were used to create the creature’s movements. Even the station’s vents sound like a living creature, adding to the unsettling atmosphere. This focus on organic sounds makes the sci-fi environment feel both dangerous and disturbingly alive.

‘The Long Dark’ (2014)

Okay, so in this game, really paying attention to sound is key to surviving. If you hear the wind howling around power lines, that’s your warning – a blizzard’s coming! And it’s not just the weather. You can actually hear wolves and bears coming before you see them, which is a lifesaver. Even the snow itself tells you things – how it crunches under your feet changes depending on how cold it is and how deep the snow is. It’s like the environment is constantly talking to you, and you need to listen up!

‘Firewatch’ (2016)

The game’s audio design brings Wyoming’s wild landscapes to life with a peaceful and thoughtful approach. The sound of wind blowing through the Shoshone National Forest creates a feeling of loneliness and intrigue. Birdsong and cricket chirps subtly accompany the characters’ radio chats. By avoiding a traditional musical score during exploration, the game lets the natural sounds of the environment create the atmosphere and tell the story of the land.

‘Abzû’ (2016)

This underwater game features a beautiful soundtrack combining a choir, orchestra, and real sounds from the ocean. You’ll hear the rhythmic movement of fish schools and realistic whale and dolphin calls echoing through the water. The overall sound design aims to capture the peacefulness and grandeur of life beneath the waves.

‘Humankind’ (2021)

Amplitude Studios brought in a bioacoustician to add realistic environmental sounds to their game map. They captured sounds from eleven different environments worldwide, including the Grand Canyon. The game uses a clever system where quiet areas actually signal barren landscapes. This creates a unique sound profile for every part of the game map.

‘Halo Infinite’ (2021)

To capture the atmosphere of the Zeta Halo ring, 343 Industries ventured to the Pacific Northwest. They used unusual methods – like destroying pianos and recording the sounds of pugs – to create otherworldly noises, then blended them with natural sounds from Earth. The game’s vast open world includes diverse environments, each with its own unique wind and animal sounds. This combination of futuristic effects and realistic nature makes the alien setting feel surprisingly real.

‘Walden, a game’ (2017)

This unique game lets you experience Henry David Thoreau’s famous stay at Walden Pond. The creators carefully researched historical data to realistically recreate the sounds of the forest as they were in 1845. You’ll hear birdsong and wind that change with the seasons, just like Thoreau described in his book. It’s a game designed to encourage players to relax and appreciate the small details of nature.

‘Eastshade’ (2019)

In this game, you play as a painter exploring a calm island, focused on capturing its natural beauty. The sound design creates a peaceful atmosphere – you’ll hear the wind in the trees, gentle waves, and local wildlife – encouraging you to slow down and enjoy the scenery as you search for the ideal landscape to paint.

‘Planet Zoo’ (2019)

This simulation brings animals to life with realistic sounds and movements, all taken from actual recordings of creatures in the wild. A key challenge for the developers was making these recordings feel close and personal for the player. Audio experts carefully cleaned up the recordings, removing unwanted noise and focusing on the specific sounds of animal behavior. The result is an immersive and educational experience that lets players hear what wildlife truly sounds like around the world.

‘Minecraft’ (2011)

The game’s sound design has been greatly improved with recent updates, adding a lot more realism to the environment. For example, developers actually recorded real dolphin sounds for the underwater areas. Caves now sound more immersive with realistic dripping water and echoing wind. This detailed sound design creates a unique experience, especially when contrasted with the game’s simple, blocky graphics.

‘Alba: A Wildlife Adventure’ (2020)

To bring the Mediterranean to life, the game developers captured the natural sounds of the Spanish coast. Players can identify different bird species by their unique songs, allowing them to photograph and document them. The sounds of the ocean and cicadas combine to create a relaxing, summery vibe. Ultimately, the game is like an engaging field guide, encouraging players to really listen to the world around them.

‘Star Wars Battlefront II’ (2017)

To create the sounds of the forest moon of Endor in the Star Wars films, sound designers from DICE actually recorded audio in California’s redwood forests. The iconic speeder bike chase, for example, blends the real sound of wind rushing through trees with synthesized engine noises. The forest is also filled with the calls of native birds and the sounds of hidden animals, bringing the fantastical setting to life and making it feel surprisingly real.

‘Stardew Valley’ (2016)

This farming game really brings the seasons to life through its sounds. You’ll hear buzzing insects in the summer and strong winds in the winter. Rainy days create a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for indoor tasks or fishing. As you rebuild the valley, the sounds around you will change and reflect your progress.

‘Metro Exodus’ (2019)

Emerging from the metro tunnels, players are greeted by the sounds of a Russia slowly being reclaimed by nature. The level set along the Volga River boasts stunning water visuals and the eerie cries of mutated creatures. The wind whispers through the remnants of old cities and sweeps across the vast, dry grasslands. The game’s sound design powerfully shifts the feeling from the tight, enclosed spaces underground to the open, expansive, and sometimes frightening world above.

‘Fallout 4’ (2015)

The ruined world is eerily quiet, with nature beginning to grow back amongst the wreckage. You can hear the buzz of flies around rotting debris and the calls of crows in the bare trees. The wind whistling through the broken buildings adds to the feeling of isolation. These sounds serve as a constant reminder of the disaster that happened before you arrived.

‘Journey’ (2012)

The game carefully crafted the sound of walking on sand to feel realistic. Wind isn’t just heard – it feels like a force that affects both the sound and the player’s movement. Moving from the hot desert to the cold mountains brings a total change in the soundscape. The game uses these environmental sounds to create feelings and tell a story without needing characters to speak.

‘Flower’ (2009)

The game lets you control the wind, and the sound design emphasizes this. As you collect petals, they add musical notes that blend with the sound of the wind. The background sounds change depending on where you are – from peaceful meadows to the noisy streets of a city. This creates a strong connection between your actions and the world around you.

‘Islands: Non-Places’ (2016)

This unique game uses real-world recordings by musician Chris Watson to build mysterious and immersive environments. The sound design often doesn’t directly match what you see, creating a surreal, dreamlike experience. Even everyday places, like bus stops, feel special thanks to the detailed and realistic audio. Ultimately, the game is an exploration of how sound affects our sense of space and memory.

‘Proteus’ (2013)

This island game features exploration powered by a reactive soundtrack. The music changes with the environment, responding to the time of day and seasons. The plants and animals even contribute to the music, creating a unique, ever-changing song for each player. It’s designed to be a calming experience that highlights the connection between nature and sound.

‘Gris’ (2018)

The beautiful watercolor-style graphics are enhanced by subtle sounds like footsteps and rocks shifting. Wind is a key part of the game’s challenges and has its own unique sound that gets louder or softer. When it rains, the game world changes, and you’ll hear calming water sounds to match. These natural elements are used to symbolize different stages of grief throughout the game.

‘DayZ’ (2018)

In this intense survival game, even a small sound like a snapping twig could mean life or death. The game’s sound system realistically simulates how sound travels across the large map, and things like wind and rain can cover up approaching enemies or gunfire. Players need to learn to tell the difference between sounds made by zombies and the natural noises of the forest.

‘Ark: Survival Evolved’ (2017)

This ancient island is covered in a thick jungle, alive with the sounds of dinosaurs. The way your footsteps sound changes depending on the ground – soft on sand, muffled in swamp water. A distant T-Rex roar is a clear warning of nearby danger. The sounds of the environment help you find useful items and stay safe from predators.

‘Raft’ (2018)

The ocean sounds realistic, with gentle waves and the groaning of the raft. Storms are loud and intense, completely masking other sounds. A shark attack is signaled by a frightening crunch, letting players know they’ve taken damage. Overall, the sound design effectively creates a feeling of isolation and the constant threat of being lost at sea.

‘Stranded Deep’ (2015)

This survival game takes place on a remote Pacific island after a crash. The sounds of everyday life – like falling coconuts and crabs – create a natural rhythm. As you dive underwater, the audio shifts to emphasize the immense pressure and quiet of the ocean depths. Players need to listen carefully for sounds to avoid dangers such as snakes and sharks.

‘Beyond Blue’ (2020)

This diving game offers a realistic underwater experience, created with help from marine scientists and stunning footage from the Blue Planet II series. It accurately recreates the sounds of whales and dolphins, and uses silence to capture the peaceful, educational feeling of the deep ocean. It’s like an interactive documentary about our planet’s oceans.

‘Way of the Hunter’ (2022)

The game developers worked hard to make animals behave and sound realistic. Players acting as hunters need to pay close attention to how an animal moves – the sound of its footsteps will change depending on whether it’s walking on dry leaves or wet grass. The way sound travels is also carefully simulated, with echoes and reverberations affected by the surrounding landscape like valleys and mountains. This creates a very detailed and technically advanced natural environment.

‘Mutazione’ (2019)

This game centers around gardening, but with a unique twist: plants create music! The world is filled with cozy, welcoming sounds from its unusual inhabitants. As you play, you can shape the game’s soundtrack by planting different flowers and plants, each producing its own distinct sound. Think of it as conducting an orchestra made of nature itself.

‘A Short Hike’ (2019)

The game features simple, pixelated graphics combined with immersive sound effects – like wind, birdsong, and the crunch of footsteps on the trail. These sounds change realistically as you fly and explore, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels like a warm summer day in a park.

‘Sky: Children of the Light’ (2019)

As I play, the wind feels real – it pushes me through the clouds and I can actually hear it rushing past. Rain isn’t just a visual effect, it feels heavy and drains my character’s energy, creating this oppressive atmosphere. And the best part? I can hear other players’ chimes echoing around the world, even without seeing them. It’s a really cool way the game lets us communicate and work together without even saying a word. It’s all about feeling the world and reacting to it!

Tell us which game’s nature sounds made you stop and listen in the comments.

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2025-12-12 18:20