Mortal FM Kombat: Plogue’s meticulous OPMZ Yamaha emulation totally slaps

We’re awash with emulations at the moment, but this one is on another level. The chip that powered everything from Yamaha’s little-known CX5M computer to the best 80s FM synths and video game masterpieces gets a long-awaited (unofficial) rendition on your computer, and it’s just about perfect — both as a instrument plug-in and an ultra-authentic player for classic games. And where this emulation started was physical, not virtual: a workbench, vintage gear and documentation, research, and physical labor.

The trippy, rave-y 90s project who scored Mortal Kombat and Marathon

You haven’t hit peak 90s until you’ve got a rave-y techno project with the track “Welcome To My Mind,” tons of vintage CGI, scores for Mortal Kombat and Halo predecessor Marathon, and an acquisition by Thomas Dolby’s Internet audio startup. Let’s take a moment and revisit Psykosonik and Power of Seven.

Peter Kirn - October 14, 2021

Gory sounds from vegetables and fruits: Mortal Kombat sound design

VICE News did a great video piece on the sound design of the latest Mortal Kombat video game. And it could inspire you to try some experiments with a mic yourself.

Peter Kirn - August 28, 2019