Video Game Producer/director Rick Zieff and video game voice actor Kevin Delaney joined forces the other night for a live online chat in Kevin’s studio (via U-Stream) on how to get into the video game world for voice talent.

“Video Games require a certain skill set. Actors must have a big range to be able to play multiple characters. It requires a deeper set of acting skills”, says Rick. He goes on to say, “The good news is there are a lot of games and lots of roles to be cast.”

Rick uses his C.A.R.D. system when hiring talent:

Consistency: When auditioning for video games and you get a callback or the job, you must match what you did in the audition. And, it’s important to keep accents consistent.

Acting: The client often wants truth in your performance. Strong acting skills are essential. The sound of your voice is secondary to the power of your acting.

Range: Video game voice actors often get hired for more than one role per game. You have to be ready for anything like being asked in the moment to do some additional characters.

Direction: This holds true in all aspects of voiceover. You must be able to listen and give the director what they want both in the audition and the job. “I often direct talent from where they are to what the client wants. An actor who can listen and think on their feet is essential”, Rick says.

Click here to watch the entire online video chat

Coming up this Thursday July 23rd and Saturday July 25th, Rick and Kevin teach their Voiceover For Video Games workshop. Click here for more info.

-Tracy Pattin