Breaking into Video Game Voiceover: Tips for Landing Your First Role

Cromerty York - Female Voice Over - Breaking Into Video Games

Why Be A Video Game Voice Actor?

Voice acting for video games has become an increasingly popular profession in recent years. With the rise of gaming as a mainstream form of entertainment, video game voiceovers have become a sought-after career option for many. However, breaking into this industry can be challenging for aspiring voice actors. In this article, we will discuss some tips and strategies for landing your first role in video game voice over.

Develop Your Skills

Before you can even think about landing your first role in video game voiceover, you need to develop your skills. This means honing your vocal technique, learning about the industry, and familiarizing yourself with the different genres of video games. Consider taking acting classes, voiceover workshops, or even online courses to help you develop your craft.

Create a Demo Reel

Once you have honed your skills, the next step is to create a professional demo reel that showcases your talent. A demo reel is a short audio clip that demonstrates your voiceover abilities. It should be no longer than two minutes and include a variety of different voice styles, emotions, and characters.

Find Representation

Having representation from a talent agency can be beneficial when trying to break into the video game voiceover industry. An agent can help you find auditions, negotiate contracts, and provide guidance on your career path. Research reputable voiceover talent agencies that specialize in your area of expertise and submit your demo reel to them.

Network

Networking is a crucial part of any entertainment industry. Attend events, conferences, and workshops where you can meet industry professionals and fellow voice actors. Join online forums and social media groups to connect with others in the industry and stay up-to-date on industry news and trends. Games can be advertised on Discord servers, or over on Twitter, so make sure you are networking in the social channel which suits you.

Audition for Indie Games

Indie games can be a great way to gain experience and build your resume as a voice actor. These games are typically produced by small independent studios and may not have the same level of competition as larger, AAA titles. Look for indie game projects that are in development and submit your demo reel for consideration.

Attend Open Casting Calls

Many video game developers and studios hold open casting calls for voice actors. Keep an eye out for these opportunities and be sure to submit your demo reel for consideration. Some studios may even allow you to submit unsolicited audition tapes.

Research the Games You Want to Voice

Before auditioning for a video game role, it’s essential to research the game’s genre, tone, and characters. This will help you understand the type of voice and performance the studio is looking for. Play the game if possible, read the script, and study the characters to gain a deeper understanding of the project.

Create Unique Characters

Video games often require male and female voice actors to play unique and memorable characters. When auditioning, it’s essential to create characters that stand out from the rest. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. A unique voice or character can help you land your first role in video game voiceover.

Be Prepared to Take on Small Roles

It’s essential to be realistic about your career expectations when starting out in video game voiceover. You may not land a lead role right away, and that’s okay. Be prepared to take on smaller roles and work your way up in the industry.

Be Professional

When auditioning for video game voiceover roles, it’s essential to present yourself in a professional manner. This means showing up on time, being prepared, and following the studio’s instructions. Treat every audition as if it’s the most important one of your career.

Embrace Feedback

Receiving feedback is an essential part of the audition process. Be open to criticism and use it to improve your performance. Take note of the studio’s feedback and incorporate it into your future auditions. Remember, every audition is an opportunity to learn and grow as a voice actor.

Stay Persistent

Breaking into the video game voiceover industry can be challenging, and it may take some time to land your first role. However, it’s essential to stay persistent and keep working on your craft. Use every audition as a learning opportunity and continue to develop your skills as a voice actor.

Cromerty York – The Voice Behind The Magic

Do you want to enhance the immersion and emotional impact of your game’s storytelling? As a talented female voice over and voice actor I can bring depth and nuance to characters, making them feel more real and relatable to players. I’m able to deliver lines with the appropriate tone, pacing, and emotion, heightening the tension, drama, or humour of a scene.

A great voice actress can also help create a memorable and distinct game world by adding unique accents, dialects, languages and vocal quirks to characters. Ultimately, if you want to create a captivating and memorable game, drop me a line and see how I can bring your vision to life.