One of the things that I love about the video game industry is not just that it’s one of the fastest growing segments in the voice over field, but also that they’re so willing to share in the process that goes into making a great video game. Often, that includes behind-the-scenes videos that give us an all-too-rare glimpse into what goes into a professional VO recording session. Today, we have a really cool look at the making of the upcoming video game Star Wars Lego III: The Clone Wars.

There are a couple of things about this video that I really like. First of all, I’m pleased to see that the video game developers were smart enough to bring the talent from the TV show over to the video game. That creates a nice audio continuity and a real treat for fans of the show who buy the game.

What’s also great about this video is that this is a video game with NO ACTUAL DIALOGUE! Yes, that’s right, the Lego Star Wars video game uses voice actors but has no dialogue. Instead, it relies on all manner of vocal sound effects: grunts, cries, laughs, sighs, shouts, and more. That’s what makes this video so much fun; we basically get to see these professional voice actors come in and simply make funny noises for an entire day.

So I shared this video for two reasons. One, because it just shows how much fun voice acting can be. But more importantly, it illustrates how you never know what a day in the recording booth is going to be like. Recording vocal sound effects like these is not an uncommon thing, especially in the video game and animation worlds. It also shows how creative you need to be when you get in the booth; it’s important to be able to let go and just have fun with the whole process.

May the VO force be with you!

This entry was posted in VO Behind the Scenes. Bookmark the permalink.

One Response

1. 02.15.11 06:59 am

   David Rodwell said:

   Lots of folks ask what voices should I perfect if I want to get into the “Video Game Industry”. People tell me they have a great “Kermit the Frog” voice or “John Wayne”.

   Well Producers are looking for new voices, new ideas, new approaches so….work on your own new creative voices.

   Here’s a little trick…

   When you come up with a new voice, a new idea or delivery, record it somehow so you don’t forget it. Grab the cassette recorder, call yourself on your cell phone and leave yourself a message in the new voice…anything to keep from forgetting.

   Next have a notebook to list all these new voices. Go ahead and give them a name so you can practice them till you have them locked in. Maybe your newest creation is a Squeaky Bug…

   Then be ready to demonstrate them on request. When a producer asks for a voice to go along with their latest creation, then you will have a ready made list of new stuff to share.

   Remember….LUCK is when Preparation and Opportunity collide. Always be prepared and maybe you will get LUCKY!