Ambassador Stories: Gina Loughlin
The Video Games Ambassadors is shining a spotlight on the remarkable ambassadors in our network. Today, we speak with Gina Loughlin, a freelance music composer and ambassador as she shares her professional journey and passion for making an impact in the games industry.
In this conversation with Gina, we uncover not just a composer creating melodies for games but a passionate advocate inspiring the next generation of talents. Her dedication to both her craft and community-building shines through, making her a maestro in the symphony of the gaming industry.
Can you tell us a bit about where you're from, your education, and the things that make you who you are?
I'm originally from Manchester and currently reside in Nottingham. Education wise, I've studied music all the way from GCSEs to Master's level. My journey into the the world of gaming has its roots in my love for music and my interest in creative hobbies. I like to crochet and pick up new instruments. Over the holidays, I impulsively bought a pink electric guitar just to fiddle around.
Transitioning from a love of music to a career in the gaming industry is fascinating. Can you share the pivotal moments and steps that led you to where you are today?
I've always been interested in games, growing up I played lots of video games with my siblings. I didn’t really think about game music seriously until A levels when I was doing an assignment and listened to a lot of game soundtracks. The Devil May Cry soundtrack was a favourite, I listened to a lot of that, even though I've never played the game. From then, I started paying a bit more attention to game audio.
I was 21 years old when I made the realisation I was interested in game audio as a career. It was after I'd finished my undergrad degree which was focused on music composition for film. It was around then I started looking for my first freelance opportunities, in particular game audio projects. I scoured the internet and I got my first gig on Reddit! I was proud that the game was actually released on PC. I think that spurred me on to focus on a career in games. Back then my technical ability was limited, I made the music but someone else added it to the game. So, I went back to study a Master’s degree to learn more about game engines and middleware. That’s where I did the more game and tech-related modules. I was really lucky because I got a scholarship too.
What do you think started your interest in music composition?
So, none of my family members are musical. I don't know where it's come from. When I was young, my mom taught me to play 3 Blind Mice on a little plastic recorder, and I became obsessed with it. I ended up joining a recorder club at school like a super nerd. I also remember a particular presentation at my primary school, where a local music service came in to talk about music and played all these different instruments. I had never really seen many of these instruments before. When I saw the presenter play the flute, I immediately went home and begged my mom for flute lessons. I absolutely fell in love with it, then it snowballed from there.
Why did you join the Video Games Ambassadors?
My motivation stems from my own experiences – the lack of mentors and resources when I started. I wanted to inspire and guide aspiring talents, offering them the support I wish I had in the early stages of my career. I particularly want to encourage more women to consider a career in the game industry, by showing that there is space for us to belong here too. s,
Referring back to the presentation at my school, it became the motivation for me to get into music. As a child, I wasn’t exposed to concerts or orchestras. If someone hadn't introduced me to something new and unfamiliar, I would not have thought about those instruments, how they sounded, or how you could play them together. That exposure made a difference and that’s why I wanted to become an ambassador. It's been fulfilling. Being actively involved in the community and witnessing the impact of a simple showcase on young minds has been incredibly rewarding.
Another reason was I felt really lost at the beginning of my career, I didn’t know if I was doing the right things. Apart from my partner, I didn’t really know anyone else in games. If I could be kind of like the person I wanted for myself as I started out, someone who you can get in touch with to ask questions, it would make a difference.
How is it going so far? Any standout moments or experiences as a VGA that you'd like to share?
So far I've really enjoyed it. I joined in 2022, at first I wasn’t very active but then decided to get more involved. I remember the first opportunity I joined was supporting the IG50 competition as a judge. It was great to support undiscovered game talent and give them a spotlight. It was great to see a bunch of them get hired through the initiative.
One of my standout VGA moments was the game audio workshop I hosted at Nottingham High School last year. Seeing the impact it had on young minds, sparking interest and questions about pursuing a career in gaming, was special. Not all parents have conversations about career paths with their kids and many don’t even realise some of these job roles exist. I think the workshop clearly started the ball rolling for some of the students there.
Do you have a favourite video game soundtrack?
Currently, itthe "Cult of the Lamb" soundtrack by River Boy has caught my attention. Its fresh, electronic approach to video game music is inspiring. It challenges the stereotypical genre norms and opens up new possibilities.
Before we wrap up, anything else you'd like to share with the network? Any shoutouts, ongoing projects, or upcoming events?
I recently worked on the "Mail Time" soundtrack, released last year. It's available on PC, switch, PS4, and PS5.
- Steam- Switch
Also, I'll be at WASD in April! If you would like to connect with me:
- Email: ginaloughlinmusic@outlook.com
If you're passionate about sharing your experiences, mentoring emerging talents, and being part of a vibrant community, consider joining the Video Games Ambassadors network. Together, let's shape the future of gaming and inspire the next generation of creators. Connect with us today!