Long voice lines and some sound effects do not play correctly (OpenAL)

[fbraz3]

Context

Audio output is partially functional on the cross-platform (Linux/macOS) builds using OpenAL backend.

Symptom

• Short sounds and general audio output are present
• Long spoken lines and selected sound effects may be missing, cut off, distorted, or unreliable
• This incomplete behavior suggests the OpenAL backend is working for simpler playback cases but not for all asset classes

Investigation Focus

Areas to audit:

1. Miles-to-OpenAL compatibility layer
   • Streaming vs. buffered playback paths
   • Format handling differences (PCM, compressed, voice vs. SFX)
2. Asset categorization:
   • Which voice lines fail specifically?
   • Which effect categories are affected?
3. Buffer management and playback state in OpenAL implementation

Impact

• Audio backend is feature-incomplete
• Voice feedback and some effects are unreliable
• Medium severity: affects immersion but is not a total blocker
• Release blocker for audio parity with original game

Notes

• Reference: GeneralsMD/Code/Audio/ and OpenAL wrappers
• Original game uses Miles Sound System; cross-platform builds use OpenAL
• This affects both Linux and macOS builds