The PlayStation Vita just got a new sampling groovebox and synth

Sony may have abandoned the PS Vita, but homebrew is ready to keep it alive. And the gorgeous handheld gaming console now gets a new identity as an all-in-one groovebox — with free, open-source software. It even supports multichannel audio over USB via a custom kernel plug-in. Meet DS-8 Drumstream, portable beatmaker.

Let’s enjoy some Square Enix game soundtracks in acoustic covers

The Square Enix Music Channel remains a gift to the Internet. So in this dire summer for the gaming industry (layoffs, the end of physical media, console price hikes), let’s keep the faith and listen to NieR played on hammered dulcimer. This, too, shall pass.

Peter Kirn - July 21, 2026

Unreal Engine 5.8 is a major audio release, despite Epic staffing cuts

Epic layoffs in March cut deep into the audio and music teams. But there’s hope that their work will live on in Unreal Engine and MetaSounds, via what is arguably the most innovative sound work built into any game engine. Unreal Engine 5.8, now in preview, features a bunch of powerful tools for working with sound, one of the biggest sound releases yet. Here’s a look at what’s in that roadmap.

Peter Kirn - June 1, 2026

From sushi pianos to Yoko Shimomura, Square Enix Music TV is the best TV

Peter Kirn - April 27, 2026

That time NIN made a perfect ambient industrial soundtrack for Quake

Peter Kirn - March 18, 2026

Offbeat and daring music in games 2025 — most on sale now

Peter Kirn - January 5, 2026

Despelote’s soundscape transports you to Ecuador and childhood football magic

Peter Kirn - December 22, 2025

How to run Bitwig Studio on the Steam Deck gaming console

Peter Kirn - December 11, 2025

A little-known Nintendo DS piano peripheral meets homebrew sound

Peter Kirn - July 31, 2025