Video Game Actors Discuss The State Of The Industry And Its Future
Image Source: IMDb
SAG-AFTRA’s video game strike is still going strong, and a new group has risen amidst this event. The Pixel Pack, an assortment of voice actors in the gaming industry, wants to remind the world that their art is just as valid and vital as any other. VAs bring a new dimension to their characters, extending them beyond animation. When a VA creates a voice, a new layer of personality is introduced; a character wouldn’t be the same without the voice that they are given, and that VA is performing just as any other actor does. In an exclusive with Entertainment Weekly, individuals associated with this coalition spoke about the state of the industry and the rising demand for voice actors.
Neil Newbon, the voice behind Asterion of Baldur’s Gate 3, commented on the difference he’s observed as both a live-action and a voice actor, “Having come from theater, film, TV, I noticed that there was a psych difference in the environment of games, really that it was a much closer-knit community.” Yuri Lowenthal, the voice actor of Peter Parker in Marvel’s Spider-Man, mentioned the on-screen actor’s perception of the industry and cross-over back in the day: “They're like, 'Don't tell anybody, but I worked on the video game because I needed the money,' or whatever.”
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Image Source: IMDb
Newbon continued, explaining the goal of the Pixel Pack, “Looking ahead, my vision is to establish the Pixel Pack as an annual initiative, one that not only celebrates established talent but also uplifts emerging actors in the gaming industry. By fostering inspiration, awareness, and advocacy, we can strengthen our collective voice and ensure that performance in games continues to be recognized, respected, and protected."
Pam Goldman, a talent agent at the Buchwald agency, spoke about the industry shift seen during and after the pandemic lockdown: "What was the last thing standing? It was voice. I have not had a down day since March of 2020. It's only increased. Because every television, film, theater, celebrity talent became available to these people, the complete consciousness of this group twisted on their head."
Image Source: SAG-AFTRA
A new level of need, visibility, and attention was brought on by the lockdown and gathering restrictions. The industry is booming and is in a position to continue growing. The current strike aims to secure a future that protects actors from AI abuse, and the Pixel Pack will regularly bring attention to the industry.
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