In the world of animation and gaming, the 'voice' is only about 10% of the job. The rest is acting. Directors are looking for characters that feel lived-in and multi-dimensional. Whether you are voicing a battle-hardened warrior or a whimsical sidekick, you must find the emotional core that makes that character's dialogue believable.
The Importance of Character Backstory
Even if the script doesn't provide a biography, you should create one. What does the character want? What are they afraid of? Answering these questions informs how the character speaks. A character who is constantly looking over their shoulder will have a different vocal tension than one who is confident and in control of their environment.
Vocal Safety During Action Scenes
Video games often require 'efforts'—grunts, screams, and combat sounds that can be incredibly taxing. Coaches emphasize the importance of using your diaphragm and proper support to avoid blowing out your voice. Always save the most strenuous screaming for the end of the session to ensure you can finish the dialogue portion first.