How to hire voice actors for video games

Discover how to hire voice actors for video games, from casting websites to Speechify's AI solution, and create immersive experiences with the top voices.

Quality voice acting is crucial for creating an immersive gaming experience. And not only for triple-A games, indie games also need to meet high industry standards, which means they need good voice actors.

Here we’ll explain how to hire video game voice actors, ensuring your characters come to life with engaging and professional voiceovers.

The essentials of video game voice acting

Becoming a voice actor for video games requires a unique skill set, including a great voice, vocal styles, and the ability to convey character emotions. Voice actors often work in recording studios or home studios, performing voice over work that brings video game characters to life. During recording sessions, they may use various vocal styles, sound effects, and motion capture to create a high-quality, immersive gaming experience.

Video game voice actors need to be versatile and adapt to different character voices and gameplay scenarios. They must also be able to work under pressure, as recording sessions can be demanding, and game development schedules are often tight. In addition, experienced voice actors should be comfortable with improvisation and the ability to work with game designers, casting directors, and other members of the game project team.

Finding the right talent for video game voice work

To find the perfect voice actor for your video game, consider the following tips:

• Casting Websites: Numerous websites, such as Voices.com and Casting Call Club, specialize in connecting game developers with professional voice actors. These sites allow you to post voice acting jobs, review demo reels, and hire voice actors for your video game voice over work.
• Social Media: Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn can be valuable resources for finding video game voice actors. Many voice-over actors and voiceover artists maintain profiles on these sites, showcasing their work and making connections with game developers.
• Networking: Attending industry events, such as game conferences and voice over industry gatherings, can help you meet voice actors and casting directors. Networking can lead to valuable connections and help you discover talented voice actors for your video game characters.
• Casting Process: Once you have identified potential voice actors, organize a casting process that includes auditions, callbacks, and rehearsals. This will allow you to evaluate their skill sets, gaming experience, and how well they fit your specific game project.
• NDAs and Contracts: Before beginning work, ensure that voice actors sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and contracts outlining their roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This will protect your game's intellectual property and help maintain a professional working relationship.

Get ideal video game voiceovers with Speechify

While hiring voice actors can be a time-consuming and costly process, an alternative solution is using Speechify for your video game voiceovers. Speechify offers high-quality, natural-sounding voices, perfect for portraying your video game characters without the need for extensive casting and recording sessions.

To get started, simply visit the Speechify website and select the voice that best fits your game's needs. Upload your script, and Speechify will generate the voice over, which you can then integrate into your game's cut scenes, gameplay, and other audio elements.

With Speechify, you can choose from a wide range of voice talent, ensuring that your video game voice over work is of the highest quality. It's a cost-effective and efficient solution for both beginners and experienced game developers looking to create an immersive gaming experience.

By investing in high-quality voiceovers and voice acting, you’ll not only enhance your game's storytelling and gameplay but also increase its appeal to gamers, boosting the chances of the game becoming a hit in the competitive video game industry.

Take the time to find the right voice talent or technology solution, and watch as your video game characters flourish, captivating players with their engaging and professional voice acting.

FAQ

How much do you pay a voice actor for a game?

Voice acting rates for games can vary, depending on the actor's experience and scope of the project. Rates may range from $100 to $500 per hour or be based on a fixed rate per finished minute of audio. Discuss payment terms and include them in a written contract.

Is there a voice acting union for video games?

Yes, there is a voice acting union for video games called SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists). It represents professional voice actors in the video game industry and negotiates contracts for its members, as well as advocates for fair treatment and compensation. Many well-known voice actors in the video game industry are members of SAG-AFTRA.

How do you make a script for a voice actor?

To create a script, outline your game's story, define characters, write dialogues, include performance directions, format the script, and proofread and revise as needed, follow these steps:

1. Outline the story and characters: Start by outlining your game's story and defining the characters that require voice acting. This will help you understand the context and tone of the dialogue.
2. Write the dialogues: Craft the dialogues for each character, ensuring they’re natural and engaging. Consider the character's personality, background, and role within the game when writing the lines.
3. Include directions: Add performance directions, such as emotions, pacing, and tone, to help guide the voice actor's performance.
4. Format the script: Organize the script in an easy-to-read format, typically with character names on the left, followed by their respective dialogues and performance directions.
5. Review and revise: Proofread and revise the script as needed, ensuring it aligns with your game's overall vision and narrative.

How do you make a voice actor sound like a game character?

Select a voice actor with the appropriate vocal range and style, provide clear guidance on the character's background and emotions, and encourage improvisation to help the actor embody the role and create a natural, engaging performance.

How do you know the voice actor is experienced?

Evaluate a voice actor's experience by reviewing their demo reel, portfolio, and previous projects. Check for versatility, vocal range, and the ability to convey emotions. Additionally, consider testimonials or references from clients to ensure the actor is professional and reliable.