Reverb (short for reverberation) is one of the most fundamental effects in audio production. It simulates the way sound behaves in physical spaces — from tight rooms to vast cathedrals.
In game audio, reverb is essential for selling the illusion of space. A character's footsteps in a dungeon should sound completely different from those in an open field. Most game audio middleware (Wwise, FMOD) supports real-time reverb adjustments based on the player's environment.
Types of reverb:
- Algorithmic — mathematically generated reflections (fast, tweakable)
- Convolution — uses impulse responses from real spaces (realistic, CPU-heavy)
- Plate — simulates a vibrating metal plate (smooth, classic sound)
- Spring — simulates a spring reverb unit (vintage character)
Key parameters include decay time, pre-delay, diffusion, and wet/dry mix.