This topic pertains only to application development in C and C++. See DirectMusic Visual Basic Samples.

Description

DMBoids is a version of Boids that adds DirectMusic support. As objects fly over a simple landscape, the music responds to user input and events on the screen.

Path

Source: (SDK root)\Samples\Multimedia\Dmusic\Src\DMBoids

Executable: (SDK root)\Samples\Multimedia\DMusic\Bin\Dmboids.exe

User's Guide

Press F10 to access the main menu. The Drivers menu allows you to change the driver, device, and video mode. The application runs only in full-screen modes.

The A (alignment), C (cohesion) and O (obstacle) keys alter behavior of the boids in various ways as long as they are held down.

Hold down the S key or the spacebar and the birds flock in closer. Release the key and they spread apart. Note the use of motifs to track this behavior.

Hold down the M key and the birds wander off their path. Notice that the music completely changes. Release and the birds will eventually get back on the path.

Press the ESC key to quit.

Programming Notes

DirectMusic features illustrated include the following:

• Software synthesis with DLS. In addition to the musical instruments from the GS sound set, the application uses custom downloadable sounds such as the voices that appear to come from the planets.
• Composing and performing style-based segments.
• Musical transitions using style-based motifs and segment cues.
• Echo/articulation tool coded that uses the proximity of the birds to adjust the echoes and note durations of the music as it plays.