Mixing Levels and Game Audio Mixing

Standard mixing levels and monitor calibration are two things that everyone working with sound should understand. Most people starting out in sound don't even realize that they should be calibrating their monitors for a specific level standard.

As far as game audio goes, there is no existence of a standard mixing level. It's understandable why it would be difficult to create a mix standard for games though. In a completely interactive medium, you never know how or in what order the sounds are going to play. This unpredictability makes mixing even more important in game audio.

Mixing for games should start before the audio assets are even thought about. A mixing level should be selected and monitors calibrated before the sounds are created and implemented. I would suggest 79dB at -20 dBfs full pink noise, but it's up to you and your studio to set the level. Next, a focal point should be determined to mix around. For most large scale games that would be dialog, but for some games it may be another important sound. Once production of the sounds begins everything should be "premixed" as it is created and implemented. Time should be set aside for just mixing at the end, but if for some reason you get pushed right up against the deadline (not so uncommon) your overall sound will already be somewhat close to being leveled correctly.

I understand that trying to adhere to mixing standards isn't always easy. Especially if you work at a studio that keeps telling you to turn the volume up. It is our duty as sound designers and implementers to deliver the best sounds possible with the best mix possible though.

Here are a few links that go into mixing for games more in depth:
GameAudioMix: Top 11 Video Game Mixing Tips
Game Audio Podcast: Episode #10 Reference & Mix Level Standards
Gamasutra: The Game Audio Mixing Revolution

This is a great gearslutz post on standard mixing levels for several different mediums.

And here are some great references on monitor calibration and standard mix levels:
Blue Sky Calibration Instructions and Files
Dynamic Interference: Quick and Dirty Monitor Calibration
Avid Audio Forums: Room Calibration for Film and TV Post
Calibrating The 5.1 System by Bobby Owinski
Gearslutz: Dolby Facility Approval Requirements
Dolby 5.1-Channel Production Guidelines

I don't claim to know everything about mixing standards and calibration, but this should be a good starting point for anyone interested in these topics. If you have any insight, comments, or questions feel free to comment or shoot me an email.

Addendum: Mxing in a Small Room