---
id: voice-audio
status: active
supersededBy: []
lang: en
title: Voice and sound
description: >-
  Voice input, auditory perception, sound as material and communication between
  players.
intro: >-
  A working design-space map: 27 families, 81 branches and 324 variants. Voice
  control, audio-based play and communication can combine or exist separately.
  Released-game examples support particular techniques; supplementary
  combinations are design proposals.
updatedAt: '2026-10-20'
sources:
  - title: There Came an Echo
    url: >-
      https://blog.playstation.com/2016/05/23/there-came-an-echo-hits-ps4-on-may-31/
    description: >-
      Voice orders to a tactical squad, group commands and custom command
      aliases.
  - title: Earplay / Codename Cygnus
    url: 'https://earplay.com/press/'
    description: Interactive audio stories use player speech as input.
  - title: Phasmophobia
    url: 'https://store.steampowered.com/app/739630/Phasmophobia/?l=english'
    description: >-
      Use real voice to interact with ghosts through the Spirit Box and Ouija
      Board.
  - title: In Verbis Virtus
    url: 'https://store.steampowered.com/app/242840/In_Verbis_Virtus/'
    description: Speak spells in a fictional language to solve puzzles and fight.
  - title: Song Quiz / Volley
    url: 'https://www.weekend.com/volleygames'
    description: Recognize songs in a voice-based game format.
  - title: Scream Go Hero
    url: 'https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scream-go-hero/id1212039074'
    description: Soft voice controls walking; screaming controls jumping.
  - title: One Hand Clapping
    url: 'https://baddreamgames.com/one-hand-clapping/'
    description: 'Musical puzzles use melody, rhythm, harmony and duets.'
  - title: Stifled
    url: 'https://blog.playstation.com/?p=195448'
    description: Sounds reveal space and expose the player to enemies.
  - title: Lurking
    url: 'https://www.lurking-game.com/'
    description: >-
      Movement, objects and microphone pulses reveal surroundings and attract
      enemies.
  - title: A Blind Legend
    url: 'https://www.dowino.com/realisations/serious-game-ablindlegend/'
    description: Exploration and combat through spatial audio.
  - title: 'The Vale: Shadow of the Crown'
    url: 'https://falling-squirrel.itch.io/the-vale'
    description: Combat and exploration through spatial audio and haptic feedback.
  - title: Blind Drive
    url: 'https://blinddrivegame.com/press/sheet.php?p=blind_drive'
    description: Audio-driven arcade driving with two-button controls.
  - title: AudioWizards
    url: 'https://store.steampowered.com/app/1215350/AudioWizards/?l=dutch'
    description: >-
      Identify enemy elements by sound and choose a corresponding
      countermeasure.
  - title: Unheard
    url: 'https://store.steampowered.com/app/942970/Unheard/?l=english'
    description: >-
      Listen to conversations, match names to voices and reconstruct event
      relationships.
  - title: Perception
    url: 'https://store.steampowered.com/app/426310/Perception/?l=english'
    description: Sound visualizes space while noise attracts a pursuer.
  - title: Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes
    url: 'https://keeptalkinggame.com/'
    description: >-
      A bomb handler and manual-holding experts cooperate through divided
      information.
  - title: SoundRTS
    url: 'https://github.com/soundmud/soundrts'
    description: Real-time strategy through an audio interface.
counts:
  families: 27
  branches: 81
  variants: 324
url: 'https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/'
markdownUrl: 'https://gamemechanics.pro/content/mechanics/en/voice-audio.md'
license: CC-BY-4.0
codeLicense: MIT
attribution: gamemechanics.pro contributors
provenance: >-
  Original taxonomy adapted from user-selected design discussions; linked
  sources support specific examples, not the whole classification.
---
# Voice and sound

A working design-space map: 27 families, 81 branches and 324 variants. Voice control, audio-based play and communication can combine or exist separately. Released-game examples support particular techniques; supplementary combinations are design proposals.

## Speech as meaning

<a id="speech"></a>

### 1. Direct voice commands

<a id="family-01"></a>
id: family-01
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-01
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-01

Specify an action, select a target and check the result.

#### Character actions

<a id="family-01-branch-1"></a>
- Movement: walk, run, turn, stop. <a id="family-01-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Interaction: open, take, inspect, activate. <a id="family-01-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Items: select, use, transfer, combine. <a id="family-01-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Abilities: attack, defend, heal, switch modes. <a id="family-01-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Selection and addressing

<a id="family-01-branch-2"></a>
- Name a particular character or object. <a id="family-01-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Select a target by a property: nearest, red, damaged. <a id="family-01-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Assign custom names and spoken aliases. <a id="family-01-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Specify relationships: behind the door, left of the tower, near an ally. <a id="family-01-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Compound commands

<a id="family-01-branch-3"></a>
- Clarify, correct or cancel an existing order. <a id="family-01-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Combine actions into a sequence. <a id="family-01-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Specify a conditional action: hide if an enemy appears. <a id="family-01-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Specify an exception: everyone except the scout. <a id="family-01-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [There Came an Echo](https://blog.playstation.com/2016/05/23/there-came-an-echo-hits-ps4-on-may-31/)

### 2. Dialogue with game characters

<a id="family-03"></a>
id: family-03
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-03
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-03

Choose a line or question to obtain information or consequences.

#### Obtaining information

<a id="family-03-branch-2"></a>
- Ask about objects, events and characters. <a id="family-03-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Request clarification, an example or an explanation. <a id="family-03-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Present evidence and ask about a contradiction. <a id="family-03-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Check what someone knows, remembers or conceals. <a id="family-03-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Response format

<a id="family-03-branch-1"></a>
- Speak one of the offered responses. <a id="family-03-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Select a topic or keyword. <a id="family-03-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Ask within a known set of intentions. <a id="family-03-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Formulate a free response interpreted against the game state. <a id="family-03-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Conversation control

<a id="family-03-branch-3"></a>
- Choose when to enter a conversation. <a id="family-03-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Interrupt, continue, change topic or end a conversation. <a id="family-03-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Obtain an answer through a chain of questions. <a id="family-03-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Revisit a previous line and use a promise or admission. <a id="family-03-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [Earplay / Codename Cygnus](https://earplay.com/press/)
- [Phasmophobia](https://store.steampowered.com/app/739630/Phasmophobia/?l=english)

### 3. Command and delegation

<a id="family-02"></a>
id: family-02
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-02
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-02

Give other agents goals and coordinate their actions.

#### Managing actors

<a id="family-02-branch-1"></a>
- Assign roles and tasks to squad members. <a id="family-02-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Control groups or several groups simultaneously. <a id="family-02-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Delegate an outcome while leaving execution to a character. <a id="family-02-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Choose a priority: survive, hold a point, rescue an ally. <a id="family-02-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Coordination

<a id="family-02-branch-2"></a>
- Prepare actions and trigger them with a shared command. <a id="family-02-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Coordinate attacks, distractions, retreats and reinforcements. <a id="family-02-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Specify formation, route, patrol area or observation sector. <a id="family-02-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Transfer control to another actor or commander. <a id="family-02-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Indirect control

<a id="family-02-branch-3"></a>
- Guide a character by radio using complementary information. <a id="family-02-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Receive reports and revise the plan. <a id="family-02-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Resolve misunderstood or incomplete orders. <a id="family-02-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Manage autonomous actors with different knowledge and skills. <a id="family-02-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [There Came an Echo](https://blog.playstation.com/2016/05/23/there-came-an-echo-hits-ps4-on-may-31/)

### 4. Verbal and language puzzles

<a id="family-05"></a>
id: family-05
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-05
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-05

Find an utterance satisfying a linguistic or logical rule.

#### Finding a word or answer

<a id="family-05-branch-1"></a>
- Answer a riddle or quiz question. <a id="family-05-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Name a word from a definition, description or association. <a id="family-05-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Continue a word chain, category or sequence. <a id="family-05-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Guess a word through questions and answer constraints. <a id="family-05-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Speech constraints

<a id="family-05-branch-2"></a>
- Explain a concept without forbidden words. <a id="family-05-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Form a phrase with required words, rhyme or length. <a id="family-05-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Follow rules about letters, syllables or word order. <a id="family-05-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Say a tongue twister or distinguish similar-sounding words. <a id="family-05-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Discovering a language

<a id="family-05-branch-3"></a>
- Find a password, spell or sequence of code phrases. <a id="family-05-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Infer fictional words' meanings from context. <a id="family-05-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Assemble formula fragments into a working expression. <a id="family-05-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Interpret an ambiguous line or wordplay correctly. <a id="family-05-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [In Verbis Virtus](https://store.steampowered.com/app/242840/In_Verbis_Virtus/)
- [Song Quiz / Volley](https://www.weekend.com/volleygames)

### 5. Negotiation, persuasion and deception

<a id="family-04"></a>
id: family-04
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-04
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-04

Influence a decision using the other person's goals and available evidence.

#### Influence

<a id="family-04-branch-1"></a>
- Match an argument to a character's interests. <a id="family-04-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Offer a deal, exchange or concession. <a id="family-04-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Set a condition, threaten or establish a boundary. <a id="family-04-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Reassure, support or gain trust. <a id="family-04-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Hidden information

<a id="family-04-branch-2"></a>
- Bluff with incomplete or invented information. <a id="family-04-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Choose what to reveal and withhold. <a id="family-04-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Maintain a cover story consistent with previous responses. <a id="family-04-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Detect contradictions in what someone says. <a id="family-04-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Relationship dynamics

<a id="family-04-branch-3"></a>
- Build trust or damage reputation through decisions. <a id="family-04-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Make a promise with delayed consequences. <a id="family-04-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Bargain over several rounds. <a id="family-04-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Mediate between characters with incompatible goals. <a id="family-04-branch-3-variant-4"></a>


## Hearing as perception

<a id="hearing"></a>

### 6. Sound-source localization and tracking

<a id="family-12"></a>
id: family-12
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-12
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-12

Determine where sound comes from and how its source moves.

#### Position

<a id="family-12-branch-1"></a>
- Distinguish left, right, front and rear sources. <a id="family-12-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Estimate approach and retreat through changing sound. <a id="family-12-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Distinguish near and distant sources through specified acoustic cues. <a id="family-12-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Determine height with suitable spatial audio. <a id="family-12-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Movement

<a id="family-12-branch-2"></a>
- Track a moving source. <a id="family-12-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Predict a trajectory from a sound sequence. <a id="family-12-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Distinguish source movement from one's own movement. <a id="family-12-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Catch the moment an object crosses a target zone. <a id="family-12-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Multiple sources

<a id="family-12-branch-3"></a>
- Separate simultaneously sounding objects. <a id="family-12-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Select the nearest or most dangerous target. <a id="family-12-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Match a source to its voice or sound signature. <a id="family-12-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Locate a source from several listening positions. <a id="family-12-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [A Blind Legend](https://www.dowino.com/realisations/serious-game-ablindlegend/)
- [The Vale: Shadow of the Crown](https://falling-squirrel.itch.io/the-vale)
- [Blind Drive](https://blinddrivegame.com/press/sheet.php?p=blind_drive)

### 7. Navigation and spatial memory

<a id="family-13"></a>
id: family-13
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-13
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-13

Build a spatial model and guide oneself or another character to a goal.

#### Landmarks

<a id="family-13-branch-1"></a>
- Move toward an audio beacon. <a id="family-13-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Follow a guide's voice or moving sound source. <a id="family-13-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Recognize places by characteristic soundscapes. <a id="family-13-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Track a fictional trail represented by changing sound. <a id="family-13-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Routes

<a id="family-13-branch-2"></a>
- Navigate a maze while remembering junctions. <a id="family-13-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Bypass an obstacle through changing landmark audibility. <a id="family-13-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Choose a safe route among several sounding paths. <a id="family-13-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Retrace a route without a continuous guide. <a id="family-13-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Mental map

<a id="family-13-branch-3"></a>
- Connect rooms into an overall layout. <a id="family-13-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Remember objects' relative positions. <a id="family-13-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Navigate by steps, turns and surface changes. <a id="family-13-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Revise a route after landmarks move or passages close. <a id="family-13-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [A Blind Legend](https://www.dowino.com/realisations/serious-game-ablindlegend/)
- [The Vale: Shadow of the Crown](https://falling-squirrel.itch.io/the-vale)

### 8. Recognizing objects and states

<a id="family-15"></a>
id: family-15
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-15
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-15

Identify an object, action or state through sound.

#### Identification

<a id="family-15-branch-1"></a>
- Recognize a person by voice. <a id="family-15-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Recognize enemies, animals, objects or tools by sound signature. <a id="family-15-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Identify material or surface through interaction sounds. <a id="family-15-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Identify a song, melody or musical instrument. <a id="family-15-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### State

<a id="family-15-branch-2"></a>
- Assess a mechanism's condition through its operating sound. <a id="family-15-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Hear threat, health or resource changes through a designed cue. <a id="family-15-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Distinguish preparation, execution and completion. <a id="family-15-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Find an object sounding different from the others. <a id="family-15-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Classification

<a id="family-15-branch-3"></a>
- Select a countermeasure for the sounding threat type. <a id="family-15-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Group sounds by a common property. <a id="family-15-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Detect a new or unfamiliar sound. <a id="family-15-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Infer a mapping between sound and game properties. <a id="family-15-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [AudioWizards](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1215350/AudioWizards/?l=dutch)
- [Unheard](https://store.steampowered.com/app/942970/Unheard/?l=english)
- [Song Quiz / Volley](https://www.weekend.com/volleygames)

### 9. Reaction, timing and prediction

<a id="family-14"></a>
id: family-14
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-14
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-14

Recognize a cue and perform the appropriate action at the right time.

#### Action windows

<a id="family-14-branch-1"></a>
- Attack, block or parry after an audio warning. <a id="family-14-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Dodge an approaching danger. <a id="family-14-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Jump, stop or change lanes on cue. <a id="family-14-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Press a button or speak within a short time window. <a id="family-14-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Waiting

<a id="family-14-branch-2"></a>
- Wait for the right phase of a repeating mechanism. <a id="family-14-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Continue counting after an audible beat disappears. <a id="family-14-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Predict collision time from an intensifying sound. <a id="family-14-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Act between noisy events or during a pause. <a id="family-14-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Selecting a reaction

<a id="family-14-branch-3"></a>
- Respond to one cue and ignore another. <a id="family-14-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Select an action from combined warning sounds. <a id="family-14-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Suppress an early response to a false cue. <a id="family-14-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Switch response rules when the game phase changes. <a id="family-14-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [A Blind Legend](https://www.dowino.com/realisations/serious-game-ablindlegend/)
- [The Vale: Shadow of the Crown](https://falling-squirrel.itch.io/the-vale)
- [Blind Drive](https://blinddrivegame.com/press/sheet.php?p=blind_drive)
- [AudioWizards](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1215350/AudioWizards/?l=dutch)

### 10. Selective attention and stream separation

<a id="family-16"></a>
id: family-16
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-16
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-16

Select the important sound stream among competing sources.

#### Focus

<a id="family-16-branch-1"></a>
- Follow one voice among several speakers. <a id="family-16-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Extract a target sound from background noise. <a id="family-16-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Follow one instrument within music. <a id="family-16-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Hear a rare event in a long repeating stream. <a id="family-16-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Attention switching

<a id="family-16-branch-2"></a>
- Switch channels, rooms or radio frequencies. <a id="family-16-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Listen to reconnaissance while responding to nearby threats. <a id="family-16-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Choose whose report to process first. <a id="family-16-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Notice background changes while doing another task. <a id="family-16-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Comparing streams

<a id="family-16-branch-3"></a>
- Compare two simultaneous sequences. <a id="family-16-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Find inconsistency between speech and surrounding events. <a id="family-16-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Identify a source masking a useful signal. <a id="family-16-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Divide listening to multiple streams among participants. <a id="family-16-branch-3-variant-4"></a>


### 11. Auditory memory and sequence transformation

<a id="family-17"></a>
id: family-17
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-17
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-17

Remember material and reproduce or transform it under a rule.

#### Memory

<a id="family-17-branch-1"></a>
- Repeat tones, words, noises or directions. <a id="family-17-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Reproduce a growing sequence. <a id="family-17-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Remember sound pairs and find matches. <a id="family-17-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Retain instructions until they can be used. <a id="family-17-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Transformation

<a id="family-17-branch-2"></a>
- Repeat a sequence in reverse. <a id="family-17-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Sort heard elements by a property. <a id="family-17-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Reproduce only elements of a selected category. <a id="family-17-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Shift rhythm, transpose pitch or replace elements under a rule. <a id="family-17-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Changes and omissions

<a id="family-17-branch-3"></a>
- Find a missing sound or word. <a id="family-17-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Identify an element changed between listens. <a id="family-17-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Continue a sequence using an inferred rule. <a id="family-17-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Restore a sequence from fragments heard at different times. <a id="family-17-branch-3-variant-4"></a>


## Voice as physical action

<a id="voice"></a>

### 12. Loudness and sound intensity

<a id="family-06"></a>
id: family-06
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-06
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-06

Control sound level to produce the intended action.

#### Thresholds and switching

<a id="family-06-branch-2"></a>
- Trigger an action with a brief loud impulse. <a id="family-06-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Switch between whispering, normal speech and a loud voice. <a id="family-06-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Cross several thresholds in the required order. <a id="family-06-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Use sufficient loudness while limiting resource use or risk. <a id="family-06-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Feedback

<a id="family-06-branch-3"></a>
- Adjust the voice to a moving sound target. <a id="family-06-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Compensate for changing sensitivity within game rules. <a id="family-06-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Separate quiet movement from a loud active action. <a id="family-06-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Coordinate several participants' loudness for a shared result. <a id="family-06-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

#### Continuous control

<a id="family-06-branch-1"></a>
- Change action speed or strength through loudness. <a id="family-06-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Keep loudness within a target range. <a id="family-06-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Gradually increase or decrease sound intensity. <a id="family-06-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Balance an object by maintaining a target sound level. <a id="family-06-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

- [Scream Go Hero](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scream-go-hero/id1212039074)

### 13. Duration, tempo and pauses

<a id="family-08"></a>
id: family-08
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-08
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-08

Control sound onset, duration and the gaps between sounds.

#### Duration

<a id="family-08-branch-1"></a>
- Sustain sound to charge or maintain an effect. <a id="family-08-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Distinguish short and long impulses. <a id="family-08-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Stop a sound at a precise moment. <a id="family-08-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Accumulate a total duration across several sounds. <a id="family-08-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Rhythmic patterns

<a id="family-08-branch-2"></a>
- Repeat a sequence of sounds and pauses. <a id="family-08-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Speak syllables or produce impulses in a target rhythm. <a id="family-08-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Speed up or slow down under a condition. <a id="family-08-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Perform syncopation, polyrhythm or alternating strong and weak beats. <a id="family-08-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Speech timing

<a id="family-08-branch-3"></a>
- Fit a phrase within a time window. <a id="family-08-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Choose the right moment to speak a command. <a id="family-08-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Wait for another line or sound cue to finish. <a id="family-08-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Include a pause of a required length in a combination. <a id="family-08-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [One Hand Clapping](https://baddreamgames.com/one-hand-clapping/)

### 14. Pitch and melodic contour

<a id="family-07"></a>
id: family-07
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-07
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-07

Reach a target pitch or move the voice along a specified contour.

#### Pitch control

<a id="family-07-branch-1"></a>
- Select an action with a high or low tone. <a id="family-07-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Move an object continuously through vocal pitch. <a id="family-07-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Match a note or interval. <a id="family-07-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Hold a steady tone for a specified duration. <a id="family-07-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Pitch changes

<a id="family-07-branch-2"></a>
- Raise or lower pitch along a contour. <a id="family-07-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Repeat a pitch sequence. <a id="family-07-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Jump between several target tones. <a id="family-07-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Repeat a melodic contour in a comfortable vocal range. <a id="family-07-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Pitch relationships

<a id="family-07-branch-3"></a>
- Match a sounding reference. <a id="family-07-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Find consonance or a required difference with another voice. <a id="family-07-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Alternate pitches as code symbols. <a id="family-07-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Control one parameter through pitch and another through loudness. <a id="family-07-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [One Hand Clapping](https://baddreamgames.com/one-hand-clapping/)

### 15. Nonverbal sounds and microphone actions

<a id="family-10"></a>
id: family-10
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-10
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-10

Use the microphone to detect sound events.

#### Mouth and breath sounds

<a id="family-10-branch-1"></a>
- Blow into the microphone to create a brief impulse. <a id="family-10-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Produce an audible exhalation or hiss. <a id="family-10-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Hum without words or click the tongue. <a id="family-10-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Whistle as a signal or combination element. <a id="family-10-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Body and object sounds

<a id="family-10-branch-2"></a>
- Clap under a specified condition. <a id="family-10-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Tap a surface in a specified rhythm. <a id="family-10-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Use an instrument or object as a game sound source. <a id="family-10-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Assemble a sequence of different noises. <a id="family-10-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Sound and silence

<a id="family-10-branch-3"></a>
- Stay silent until a signal appears. <a id="family-10-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Alternate audible sound and absence of sound. <a id="family-10-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Keep total noise below a game threshold. <a id="family-10-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Let the device hear a required real-world event. <a id="family-10-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [Stifled](https://blog.playstation.com/?p=195448)
- [Lurking](https://www.lurking-game.com/)

### 16. Timbre, articulation and imitation

<a id="family-09"></a>
id: family-09
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-09
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-09

Reproduce a recognizable sound pattern.

#### Phonetics

<a id="family-09-branch-1"></a>
- Produce a required vowel, consonant or syllable. <a id="family-09-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Distinguish close phonemes and select the corresponding action. <a id="family-09-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Emphasize stress or an articulatory accent. <a id="family-09-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Change vocal shape while keeping pitch steady. <a id="family-09-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Imitation

<a id="family-09-branch-2"></a>
- Imitate an animal, machine or instrument. <a id="family-09-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Imitate a fictional character's voice using specified properties. <a id="family-09-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Reproduce laughter, growling, whistling or another recognizable signal. <a id="family-09-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Make a sound another player must identify. <a id="family-09-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Performance style

<a id="family-09-branch-3"></a>
- Read a line with a specified fictional mood. <a id="family-09-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Alternate voiced, whispered and sung delivery. <a id="family-09-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Maintain an acoustic disguise through range, rhythm and timbre. <a id="family-09-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Choose delivery style as a separate game parameter. <a id="family-09-branch-3-variant-4"></a>


### 17. Singing and musical performance

<a id="family-11"></a>
id: family-11
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-11
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-11

Perform music with specified pitch and timing relationships.

#### Repetition

<a id="family-11-branch-1"></a>
- Sing notes or a melody from a model. <a id="family-11-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Match pitch, rhythm and phrase endings. <a id="family-11-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Continue a melody after the guide disappears. <a id="family-11-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Repeat a musical phrase in call-and-response form. <a id="family-11-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Joint performance

<a id="family-11-branch-2"></a>
- Sing in unison with a character or player. <a id="family-11-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Add a second voice and maintain harmony. <a id="family-11-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Enter a part at the right moment. <a id="family-11-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Divide melody, bass and rhythmic foundation among participants. <a id="family-11-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Creating music

<a id="family-11-branch-3"></a>
- Improvise within a musical rule. <a id="family-11-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Compose a motif suited to the task. <a id="family-11-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Build vocal loops and layer parts. <a id="family-11-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Change performance in response to the game world. <a id="family-11-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [One Hand Clapping](https://baddreamgames.com/one-hand-clapping/)

## Sound as information and material

<a id="material"></a>

### 18. Recording, editing and playback

<a id="family-20"></a>
id: family-20
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-20
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-20

Collect or transform sound to serve a game function.

#### Collecting material

<a id="family-20-branch-1"></a>
- Record the required sound at the right moment. <a id="family-20-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Collect voices, noises or musical phrases. <a id="family-20-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Select a fragment from a long recording. <a id="family-20-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Obtain a recording from a specified position or distance. <a id="family-20-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Editing

<a id="family-20-branch-2"></a>
- Put fragments in the required order. <a id="family-20-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Loop a sound or assemble loops. <a id="family-20-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Layer tracks and synchronize them. <a id="family-20-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Change a recording's pitch, speed, loudness or spectrum. <a id="family-20-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Using recordings

<a id="family-20-branch-3"></a>
- Play a recording as a lure or distraction. <a id="family-20-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Open a sound lock with a recording. <a id="family-20-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Present a recording as evidence or a message. <a id="family-20-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Create a sound scene a character or player must recognize. <a id="family-20-branch-3-variant-4"></a>


### 19. Stealth, lures and noise control

<a id="family-22"></a>
id: family-22
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-22
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-22

Manage audibility to gather information, evade detection or influence opponents.

#### Player audibility

<a id="family-22-branch-1"></a>
- Choose a quiet surface or movement method. <a id="family-22-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Move while an environmental event masks one's own noise. <a id="family-22-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Stay silent as a threat approaches. <a id="family-22-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Trade speed for reduced audibility. <a id="family-22-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Opponent behavior

<a id="family-22-branch-2"></a>
- Throw or activate a sounding lure. <a id="family-22-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Draw an opponent out of an area with sound. <a id="family-22-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Imitate a signal the opponent considers safe or familiar. <a id="family-22-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Create several sources to confuse a search. <a id="family-22-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Information and risk

<a id="family-22-branch-3"></a>
- Reveal oneself through sound to scout. <a id="family-22-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Choose signal range according to detection risk. <a id="family-22-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Conceal conversation from listening enemies. <a id="family-22-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Recognize sound lures used by an opponent. <a id="family-22-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [Stifled](https://blog.playstation.com/?p=195448)
- [Lurking](https://www.lurking-game.com/)
- [Perception](https://store.steampowered.com/app/426310/Perception/?l=english)

### 20. Echolocation and world acoustics

<a id="family-21"></a>
id: family-21
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-21
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-21

Produce or direct sound to obtain information or an effect through propagation.

#### Active probing

<a id="family-21-branch-1"></a>
- Send a sound pulse and study the response. <a id="family-21-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Choose frequent weak or rare strong pulses. <a id="family-21-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Estimate spatial shape from reflections. <a id="family-21-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Detect an object responding only to a particular signal. <a id="family-21-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Propagation

<a id="family-21-branch-2"></a>
- Open or close a passage to change source audibility. <a id="family-21-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Position reflectors or absorbers to direct a signal. <a id="family-21-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Bypass an acoustic shadow or find a transmission path. <a id="family-21-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Choose a position with the required direct sound and reflections. <a id="family-21-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Effects

<a id="family-21-branch-3"></a>
- Activate a resonator with a suitable frequency. <a id="family-21-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Coordinate sources for amplification or designed cancellation. <a id="family-21-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Trigger a mechanism chain through sound transmission. <a id="family-21-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Change the environment and observe its altered response. <a id="family-21-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [Stifled](https://blog.playstation.com/?p=195448)
- [Lurking](https://www.lurking-game.com/)
- [Perception](https://store.steampowered.com/app/426310/Perception/?l=english)

### 21. Investigation and event reconstruction

<a id="family-18"></a>
id: family-18
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-18
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-18

Compare audible evidence and reconstruct causal relationships.

#### Observation

<a id="family-18-branch-1"></a>
- Eavesdrop at the right place and time. <a id="family-18-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Compare different speakers' lines. <a id="family-18-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Identify a speaker, place or action through background acoustics. <a id="family-18-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Distinguish testimony, retelling and a character's conjecture. <a id="family-18-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Reconstructing events

<a id="family-18-branch-2"></a>
- Establish action order from sound traces. <a id="family-18-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Connect simultaneously unfolding scenes. <a id="family-18-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Match names, voices, roles and movements. <a id="family-18-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Reconstruct causality between a conversation and a later event. <a id="family-18-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Testing hypotheses

<a id="family-18-branch-3"></a>
- Find contradictions in testimony or alibis. <a id="family-18-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Distinguish a recording, broadcast and live event. <a id="family-18-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Check whether a character could hear a conversation. <a id="family-18-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Choose the next listen that best distinguishes hypotheses. <a id="family-18-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [Phasmophobia](https://store.steampowered.com/app/739630/Phasmophobia/?l=english)
- [Unheard](https://store.steampowered.com/app/942970/Unheard/?l=english)

### 22. Codes, ciphers and hidden messages

<a id="family-19"></a>
id: family-19
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-19
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-19

Discover an encoding rule and extract a message.

#### Symbolic codes

<a id="family-19-branch-1"></a>
- Decode short and long impulses. <a id="family-19-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Read a message encoded in pitches or rhythmic figures. <a id="family-19-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Map sounds to letters, numbers, directions or actions. <a id="family-19-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Infer an unfamiliar sound alphabet. <a id="family-19-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Hidden information

<a id="family-19-branch-2"></a>
- Find a message in background noise. <a id="family-19-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Isolate a part among layered tracks. <a id="family-19-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Detect a message in repetitions, accents or pauses. <a id="family-19-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Distinguish a real signal from a similar counterfeit. <a id="family-19-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Decoding transformations

<a id="family-19-branch-3"></a>
- Change playback speed to understand a message. <a id="family-19-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Play a fragment backward. <a id="family-19-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Select a frequency, filter or listening channel. <a id="family-19-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Combine message fragments from different sources. <a id="family-19-branch-3-variant-4"></a>


### 23. Music as world rules

<a id="family-23"></a>
id: family-23
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-23
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-23

Change musical relationships to change the game space.

#### Musical locks

<a id="family-23-branch-1"></a>
- Open a path with the right melody. <a id="family-23-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Find a harmony that activates an object. <a id="family-23-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Reproduce a mechanism's rhythm. <a id="family-23-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Recognize a motif and use it in the right place. <a id="family-23-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### World transformation

<a id="family-23-branch-2"></a>
- Change the environment through a musical part. <a id="family-23-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Add or mute instruments to enable different options. <a id="family-23-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Switch world modes through tempo, mode or motif. <a id="family-23-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Connect musical objects into a working system. <a id="family-23-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Actions in music

<a id="family-23-branch-3"></a>
- Attack, move or build on a musical grid. <a id="family-23-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Coordinate actions with a changing score. <a id="family-23-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Improvise an action sequence that creates music. <a id="family-23-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Manage musical tension as a game resource. <a id="family-23-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [One Hand Clapping](https://baddreamgames.com/one-hand-clapping/)

## Communication between players

<a id="social"></a>

### 24. Cooperation with divided information

<a id="family-24"></a>
id: family-24
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-24
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-24

Combine participants' knowledge to complete a shared task.

#### Role division

<a id="family-24-branch-1"></a>
- One sees the object while another has instructions. <a id="family-24-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- One hears threats while another controls movement. <a id="family-24-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Each hears part of a shared scene. <a id="family-24-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- One analyzes data while another acts in real time. <a id="family-24-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Communicating descriptions

<a id="family-24-branch-2"></a>
- Describe an object so a partner can identify it uniquely. <a id="family-24-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Communicate a route, layout or action sequence. <a id="family-24-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Agree on a shared vocabulary for ambiguous objects. <a id="family-24-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Check understanding through a repeated description. <a id="family-24-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Joint solutions

<a id="family-24-branch-3"></a>
- Combine code or instruction fragments. <a id="family-24-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Coordinate actions using a shared cue. <a id="family-24-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Switch roles as available information changes. <a id="family-24-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Correct a partner's error with feedback. <a id="family-24-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes](https://keeptalkinggame.com/)

### 25. Restricted communication channels

<a id="family-25"></a>
id: family-25
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-25
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-25

Transmit enough information through a channel constrained by game rules.

#### Capacity

<a id="family-25-branch-1"></a>
- Fit a word count or transmission-duration limit. <a id="family-25-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Send messages during rare communication windows. <a id="family-25-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Choose among competing channels. <a id="family-25-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Send urgent information before secondary details. <a id="family-25-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Distortion

<a id="family-25-branch-2"></a>
- Restore a message with gaps and interference. <a id="family-25-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Work with delayed and outdated reports. <a id="family-25-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Relay a message through intermediaries. <a id="family-25-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Distinguish an original order from a distorted retelling. <a id="family-25-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Radio rules

<a id="family-25-branch-3"></a>
- Take turns on a shared channel. <a id="family-25-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Use code words and acknowledgments. <a id="family-25-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Send information an opponent cannot understand. <a id="family-25-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Determine which sender or channel to trust. <a id="family-25-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes](https://keeptalkinggame.com/)

### 26. Social deduction, roles and performance

<a id="family-26"></a>
id: family-26
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-26
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-26

Interpret people's statements and influence decisions within game roles.

#### Social deduction

<a id="family-26-branch-1"></a>
- Identify a hidden role through actions and conversation content. <a id="family-26-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Defend an account of events before a group. <a id="family-26-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Agree on a vote or shared decision. <a id="family-26-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Convince others of a false account while maintaining a consistent cover story. <a id="family-26-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Roleplay speech

<a id="family-26-branch-2"></a>
- Speak as a character with specified goals. <a id="family-26-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Improvise a scene within role constraints. <a id="family-26-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Continue a shared story while incorporating others' contributions. <a id="family-26-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Achieve a secret objective through dialogue and interaction. <a id="family-26-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Performing for an audience

<a id="family-26-branch-3"></a>
- Explain a concept the group must guess. <a id="family-26-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Portray a scene or object using only sounds. <a id="family-26-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Perform an argument, story or musical fragment. <a id="family-26-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Judge another performance against agreed game criteria. <a id="family-26-branch-3-variant-4"></a>


### 27. Competition and collective synchronization

<a id="family-27"></a>
id: family-27
canonicalId: voice-audio--family-27
url: https://gamemechanics.pro/en/mechanics/voice-audio/#family-27

Compare participants' performances or coordinate voices and actions.

#### Speed and accuracy

<a id="family-27-branch-1"></a>
- Give the correct spoken answer first. <a id="family-27-branch-1-variant-1"></a>
- Reproduce a note, rhythm, phrase or sound more accurately. <a id="family-27-branch-1-variant-2"></a>
- Maintain a sequence without errors for longer. <a id="family-27-branch-1-variant-3"></a>
- Communicate better under identical constraints. <a id="family-27-branch-1-variant-4"></a>

#### Interacting performances

<a id="family-27-branch-2"></a>
- Perform a musical or spoken duet. <a id="family-27-branch-2-variant-1"></a>
- Exchange phrases in call-and-response form. <a id="family-27-branch-2-variant-2"></a>
- Speak words or produce impulses in synchrony. <a id="family-27-branch-2-variant-3"></a>
- Divide a shared result among several parts. <a id="family-27-branch-2-variant-4"></a>

#### Opposition

<a id="family-27-branch-3"></a>
- Disrupt an opponent with false signals within the rules. <a id="family-27-branch-3-variant-1"></a>
- Protect a sound channel from game interference. <a id="family-27-branch-3-variant-2"></a>
- Adapt to an opponent's rhythm or change one's own. <a id="family-27-branch-3-variant-3"></a>
- Distinguish friendly signals from hostile imitation. <a id="family-27-branch-3-variant-4"></a>

- [Song Quiz / Volley](https://www.weekend.com/volleygames)

## How games convey information through sound

These methods represent data and feedback. The same method can support different game actions.

### Meaningful object sounds

Use footsteps, mechanisms, water or ringing objects. Give objects sound signatures and change their sound with state.

### Spoken descriptions

Directly describe positions, events or states. Use in-world reports, dialogue or audio drama containing game information.

### Designed audio symbols

Use brief event cues, sets identifying object or threat types, or a learned sound alphabet.

### Spatial representation

Use stereo or spatial sources for direction. Change audibility for movement and barriers. Distribute sources to represent scenes or maps.

### Continuous sonification

Map pitch to numbers or position; pulse rate to distance, speed or goal proximity; and timbre, loudness or density to parameters.

### Contrast and silence

Missing expected cues indicate change. Pauses mark action windows or sequence boundaries. Inconsistency between speech and background events provides evidence.

### Information on request

Listen to objects or request summaries. Switch listening position or channel. Probe actively and interpret the response.

### Musical representation

Identify characters, places or objects with motifs. Use parts and harmony for system state and musical transitions for phase changes.

## Parameters that create variations

Combine these parameters with any family. Selecting a parameter value alone does not constitute an independent mechanic.

### Role of sound

Sole perception channel; primary channel with graphics; local mechanic within a visual game; human communication without computer recognition.

### Input method

Speech meaning; acoustic voice or noise properties; buttons and gestures with audio feedback; combined voice, controller and spatial sensors.

### Information availability

Everything audible immediately; information revealed on request or movement; hidden or outdated information; complementary information across participants.

### Time

Turn-based actions; real time; bounded response windows; delayed execution or asynchronous messages.

### Evaluation

Solution correctness or speech content; pitch, rhythm, loudness or sound-shape accuracy; timing, efficiency and resources; coordination, clarity or group decisions.

### Action cost

Game resources; detection risk; channel or attention occupation; irreversible relationship or world changes.

### Information reliability

Unambiguous signals; ambiguous or incomplete signals; mistaken sources; intentional deception within the game.

### Skill progression

Longer and more complex sequences; new signals, words and rules; fewer hints and greater independence; combinations of mastered mechanics.

### Participants

Solo player; player and system-controlled interlocutor; cooperative group; opponents or teams.

### Task variation

Authored situations; procedural signals and objects; adaptation to measurable performance; generated dialogue bounded by state and rules.

## Familiar game loops in audio form

These are conventional game loops adapted to voice or audio interfaces. They complement the core mechanics rather than define separate sound input methods.

### Adventure and exploration

Explore locations, find items and open passages. Collect inventory and use items on objects. Revisit places after obtaining knowledge or abilities.

### Quizzes and party games

Answer in turns or against time. Guess words, music, scenes and sound sources. Explain or perform tasks for others.

### Card and board games

Receive private hands or roles through personal audio. Announce moves, wagers, exchanges or votes. Track shared state through short spoken updates.

### Narrative and roleplaying campaigns

Make choices with delayed effects. Develop relationships and reputation. Play a story alone, with a facilitator or in a group.

### Turn-based tactics and RPGs

Select targets and abilities through speech or audio menus. Assess position, initiative and state through reports and cues. Assemble squads, equipment and ability combinations.

### Strategy and management

Allocate resources, production and actors. Receive event reports and prioritize. Plan development and respond to threats in several places.

### Simulations and professions

Diagnose equipment faults by sound. Handle dispatcher, operator or rescue calls. Control transport, production or services through instrument cues.

### Survival and development

Plan limited resources, routes and risks. Collect, craft and exchange items. Learn new sound cues, commands and navigation methods.

## 16 mechanic combinations

Design proposals. These titles name concepts rather than released games.

### Scout in darkness

Localization + echolocation + stealth: pulses reveal a map but expose position to enemies.

### Blind navigator

Audio landmarks + route memory + changing world: travel a route and return after beacons disappear.

### Acoustic detective

Listening + voice recognition + chronology: reconstruct events from parallel conversations.

### Duet with divided information

Musical performance + cooperation: each participant knows only their part and part of the rule.

### Rescue dispatcher

Command + limited radio + incomplete reports: decide whom to send, answer and double-check.

### Sound lockpicker

Recording + editing + sound locks: assemble a suitable signal from discovered fragments.

### Magical language

Vocabulary discovery + spoken formulas + musical relationships: infer a language and apply it to mechanisms.

### Hunting sound counterfeits

Recognition + lures + memory: detect inconsistencies in an opponent's familiar-sound imitations.

### Archive of a vanished city

Recordings + place signatures + mental maps: reconstruct space from scattered audio fragments.

### Unreliable radio partner

Dialogue + conflicting information + navigation: compare guidance with surrounding audible events.

### Acoustic machine specialist

Diagnosis + filtering + mechanisms: identify faults and verify repairs by listening.

### Time-pressured negotiations

Bargaining + hidden information + short response windows: agree before circumstances change.

### Synchronized sound code

Rhythmic sequences + several performers: open a mechanism through coordinated sound.

### Team sound scene

Imitation + group performance + guessing: create an event using voices and objects.

### Radio strategy

Resources + reports + communication priorities: manage territories with limited audio awareness.

### Escape during a concert

Rhythm + noise masking + constrained routes: move while the orchestra masks footsteps.

## Classification limits



This is a design space. Examples support particular game mechanics rather than every variation in a family.

Voice control, audio-based play and communication between players can exist independently.

Visualized echolocation does not guarantee screen-free play. Stifled, Lurking and Perception are hybrid examples here.

Microphones measure sound. Silence does not prove breath-holding, and loudness does not reliably measure effort or speaker distance.

Intonation alone does not reliably establish emotion or truthfulness. Game judgments can use content, explicit acoustic rules or human decisions.

Spatial audio output and locating a real speaker require different technologies. A single ordinary microphone does not provide full spatial control.

Speech recognition, synthesis, binaural audio and noise suppression are technologies. Mechanics require actions, rules, feedback and meaningful outcomes.

Spoken menus, replay, tempo settings and text alternatives are interface features supporting any of these mechanics.

## Sources and examples

Sources support particular techniques or methodology, not every family variant. Design examples and mechanic combinations are illustrative.

- [There Came an Echo](https://blog.playstation.com/2016/05/23/there-came-an-echo-hits-ps4-on-may-31/): Voice orders to a tactical squad, group commands and custom command aliases.
- [Earplay / Codename Cygnus](https://earplay.com/press/): Interactive audio stories use player speech as input.
- [Phasmophobia](https://store.steampowered.com/app/739630/Phasmophobia/?l=english): Use real voice to interact with ghosts through the Spirit Box and Ouija Board.
- [In Verbis Virtus](https://store.steampowered.com/app/242840/In_Verbis_Virtus/): Speak spells in a fictional language to solve puzzles and fight.
- [Song Quiz / Volley](https://www.weekend.com/volleygames): Recognize songs in a voice-based game format.
- [Scream Go Hero](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scream-go-hero/id1212039074): Soft voice controls walking; screaming controls jumping.
- [One Hand Clapping](https://baddreamgames.com/one-hand-clapping/): Musical puzzles use melody, rhythm, harmony and duets.
- [Stifled](https://blog.playstation.com/?p=195448): Sounds reveal space and expose the player to enemies.
- [Lurking](https://www.lurking-game.com/): Movement, objects and microphone pulses reveal surroundings and attract enemies.
- [A Blind Legend](https://www.dowino.com/realisations/serious-game-ablindlegend/): Exploration and combat through spatial audio.
- [The Vale: Shadow of the Crown](https://falling-squirrel.itch.io/the-vale): Combat and exploration through spatial audio and haptic feedback.
- [Blind Drive](https://blinddrivegame.com/press/sheet.php?p=blind_drive): Audio-driven arcade driving with two-button controls.
- [AudioWizards](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1215350/AudioWizards/?l=dutch): Identify enemy elements by sound and choose a corresponding countermeasure.
- [Unheard](https://store.steampowered.com/app/942970/Unheard/?l=english): Listen to conversations, match names to voices and reconstruct event relationships.
- [Perception](https://store.steampowered.com/app/426310/Perception/?l=english): Sound visualizes space while noise attracts a pursuer.
- [Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes](https://keeptalkinggame.com/): A bomb handler and manual-holding experts cooperate through divided information.
- [SoundRTS](https://github.com/soundmud/soundrts): Real-time strategy through an audio interface.