Q: First, could you list some video games you've lent your voice to? This will give our readers a context for your work.
A: Ooh, there have been quite a few that I've been in. Let's see now, off the top of my head, I have been in 'Timore Redo,' 'Theater Unrest,' 'Chimney Prowler,' 'Bendy and the Dark Revival,' 'Defend the Highlands and Defend the Highlands World tour,' 'Anglerfish,' 'The Pancakes Official Game Show,' and quite a few more that I can't remember at the moment.
Q: What's your professional background, and how did it evolve into a career in voice acting for video games? We're keen to understand the path that led you here.
A: I used to perform in theatre in my teens and thoroughly enjoyed it. I then did a stint on a local radio show with my girlfriend as a DJ/host, playing obscure video game music and industrial music. After that, I did some short films for friends on YouTube. I prefer to use my voice these days due to a condition called post-thrombotic syndrome, which severely restricted my ability to get around, so I started doing small gigs making Twitch alert sounds and funny answering machine messages for people. This led to bigger gigs like audiobooks and reading out scripts for radio adverts and so on, until one day, I was asked to perform for the game 'Defend the Highlands,' and after that, I just kept getting the gigs. I am especially appreciative of Vidas Salavejus, also known as Mr. Timore, and The Meatly, who both continue to amaze me with the games they come out with, whether I'm in them or not.
Q: Your Scottish accent is distinctive. How do you feel it contributes to your voice acting? Is it something you play to your advantage, or do you often find yourself adapting to different vocal requirements?
A: I actually find that people tend to want me to exaggerate my accent more. You know, I don't sound "Scottish enough" sometimes. But you always have to adapt to the roles you are given, even if it's just a few lines. You should always play it as though it's the most important gig you have ever been in, and I always try to improve by practicing different techniques, including false chord growls, which are handy for monsters. I can adapt to a few accents so far, but as always, I'm still learning, and that's something to remember: there is no such thing as perfection, so just practice.
Q: Roles in horror games like 'Bendy and the Dark Revival' and 'Timore Redo' can be quite demanding. How do you prepare for such roles, and what's your process for bringing these characters to life?
A: For 'Timore,' Vidas is a wonderful director as well as a creator; he knows exactly what he wants out of his voice actors, and I usually give him three takes to choose from. My technique for his games is to try and imagine what kind of stress the characters are under. Or, in the case of 'Chimney Prowler,' I was basically a disgruntled Santa Claus, so I just had fun with it. For 'Bendy and the Dark Revival,' I knew that Steve had a tragic story, but the part I was speaking for was when he first started working at the studios, so I had him as a slightly cocky, overly sarcastic character, but who came across as friendly and slightly shy at the same time. Not an easy task, but I think I managed it okay.
Q: How do you believe voice acting contributes to immersive storytelling in video games? Can you share your perspective on the role of voice work in enhancing game narratives?
A: I always remember getting annoyed or skipping long, text-based dialogues in games when I was younger because they didn't hold my interest as much as they should have, especially in RPGs or occasionally point-and-click adventure games. But when I played Discworld 2 on PC and heard all the characters speaking, I knew I had to listen to every joke, every plot line, and even the squeaks of the Death of Rats. Now, if I'm playing any game at all with voice acting in it, I stop and listen to the story, even if it's in another language, like in the Yakuza games. I feel that games have evolved from a pick-up-and-play hobby to more like immersive art now. The stories that are woven and acted out properly are wonderful, and I can't get enough of them. Being part of the narrative in a game is an absolute joy to me, and I hope to continue performing as long as I can.
Q: With ongoing advancements in AI technology, there's a lot of speculation about the future of voice acting. How do you perceive the impact of AI on your profession? Are there concerns or opportunities you foresee?
A: The problem with AI voice acting is that, although you can use it to voice an entire script, you miss out on the little nuances and inflections that a real voice actor brings to the role. AI voices are very literal in the way they speak, and it can be quite jarring when you notice it, like when certain words are mispronounced or the script is missing punctuation, and the AI voiceover just spoke flatly over what should have been a question. I honestly don't have an issue with AI when used correctly, but if you want a performance that an audience will accept as genuine, then you're better off getting a real-life voice actor to perform the role.
Q: Let's talk tech. Could you share your preferences for microphones, software, and other tools of the trade? Do you favor a home studio setup, or do you prefer the facilities of a professional studio? How does this choice affect your work?
A: Well, I can't give away all my secrets, but I will say that you don't need an expensive setup to start with. I would suggest a condenser microphone, and make sure you get a pop filter and shock mount. As for software, if you can't afford professional studio software, then Audacity works extremely well. YouTube is a great tool for learning how to use the software you need. I prefer working from home as I can record in comfort, but studios are great for large-scale projects if the client is willing to pay for the time.
Q: Looking ahead, are there any projects on the horizon that you're particularly excited about? Without violating any NDAs, could you give us a hint or a teaser about what's coming up?
A: I apologize, but my lips are sealed for now. You'll just have to wait and see.
Q: Could you share any resources, techniques, or practices that have been instrumental in your growth as a voice actor? Additionally, do you participate in any hobbies or creative activities, like singing, playing musical instruments, or anything else that enhances your vocal abilities and performance skills?
A: Well, I used to be in a band when I was a lot younger, never famous though, but the vocal warm-ups always helped. They might feel a little silly to start with, but if you're working for ten hours at a time on an audiobook, you need to make sure you don't strain your voice. My main suggestion to anyone looking to get into any kind of voice acting is to read a book out loud, either by yourself or to someone. Even reading a chapter every so often can help you get used to speaking as you read. Also, try not to rush through the words. It's tempting to go fast, but you have to remember that people need to understand what you're saying. Practice getting to know what your voice can do, experiment with characters, and just have fun with it. Make sure it's a book you enjoy, though; you don't want to fall asleep.
Q: As we close our discussion, I'd like to ask: who do you think would be a valuable next guest for Fix Gaming Channel's 'Insight into Game Development' series? Would you recommend an actor, a scriptwriter, or perhaps another role within the industry? Moreover, what aspects of game development do you feel deserve more recognition or understanding?
A: Oh, that's quite tricky as I have a list of folk a mile long that you could talk to. I don't want to leave anyone out, so I will just say, check out some of the up-and-coming talent out there; give the new folk a chance to shine and to any of the veteran Voice actors out there I would just like to say, remember we all have to start somewhere.
Before we wrap up, could you tell us where our readers can find out more about your work or follow your upcoming projects? Are there any websites, social media handles, or platforms where fans can keep up with what you're doing and perhaps even interact with you?
