Unlocking the Potential of Video Game Concerts for Game Studios

The current era is often referred to as the 'golden age' of video game concerts, with numerous high-profile events such as Final Fantasy's Distant Worlds and Final Symphony, the Genshin Concert Tour, and the Game Music Festival in London drawing large crowds. Many video game companies are now hosting and uploading full-length concerts online for fans worldwide to enjoy. Although the concept of video game concerts may seem relatively new, they have been around since 1987, when Dragon Quest composer Koichi Sugiyama's Family Classic Concert was held in Japan. It wasn't until 2003 that video game concerts gained popularity in the West, with Thomas Böcker's Symphonic Game Music Concert in Germany. Despite the growing number of video game concerts, organizing them can be a complex and challenging task. However, with the right approach, game studios of all sizes can benefit from hosting video game concerts. To produce a successful video game concert, several key factors must be considered, including licensing, production, booking, marketing, orchestration, health and safety, merchandising, and financing. Choosing the right IP and theme for the concert is crucial, as is selecting the songs to be performed. Data such as Spotify streams and YouTube plays can help inform setlist decisions, but it's also important to consider fan feedback and include a mix of popular and deep-cut tracks. Licensing contracts for video game concerts require a unique template, and separate agreements may be needed for licensed music. Once the IP and licensing have been secured, the next step is to arrange the game's music for a live performance. This may involve partnering with the game's composer or hiring an orchestrator or arranger. The budget for the concert will depend on factors such as the number of musicians, instrumentation, and venue. Booking a venue and orchestra can be a complicated and expensive process, with fees varying significantly depending on location and union rates. Determining ticket prices is also crucial, as they must be fair and accessible for customers while ensuring the concert is profitable. Adding a video element to the production can enhance the experience but increases costs. Insurance policies, marketing, and advertising are also essential considerations. While creating video game concerts can be a significant undertaking, many responsibilities can be outsourced to a specialist production partner or included in a licensing deal. This can generate revenue for the game studio through licensing fees and merchandise sales. Recording the concert and releasing it on CD, vinyl, or digital platforms can also generate revenue and increase awareness of the game IP. Surveys have shown that attending video game concerts can increase fan engagement, with many attendees likely to replay the game, listen to the soundtrack, or buy merchandise after the show. To make the concert experience even more special, game studios can incorporate elements such as guest appearances, in-jokes, and narrative elements from the franchise. Ultimately, video game concerts offer a unique opportunity for game studios to generate positive sentiment and provide a celebration of their favorite games for fans.