The 5 Best Underrated Voice Performances in Gaming

Who are some of the most underrated voice actors in video games? The video game voice-acting industry has seen remarkable talent and performances over the years. Voice actors play a crucial role in bringing video game characters to life, immersing players in the game’s narrative, and enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Steve Downes’ portrayal of Master Chief and Nolan North’s work as Nathan Drake are just a couple of standout examples of the exceptional voice acting that has contributed to the success and popularity of many video game franchises. Having said that, let’s delve further down onto what makes an underrated voice actor.

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Underrated Voice Actors in Video Games: A Breakdown

It’s true that the world of video game voice acting is vast, and while some performances become iconic, there are numerous others that go underappreciated. These underrated voice actors often bring depth and personality to characters that may not be as central to the game’s storyline but still play crucial roles in the overall experience.

These often-underrated voice performances can greatly contribute to the richness and immersion of the gaming world, even if they don’t receive as much recognition as the more prominent roles. Having said that, we would like to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes that have helped enhance gaming experiences for players everywhere.

1. Andrew Kishino as Ishi Sato — Bulletstorm

The first entry on our underrated voice actors is Ishi Sato. “Bulletstorm” is often appreciated for its fast-paced gameplay and unique sense of humor. Andrew Kishino’s portrayal of Ishi Sato in the game is a testament to the depth and talent that voice actors can bring to their roles.

Ishi Sato’s character arc, as he grapples with a cybernetic takeover, adds a layer of complexity to the game’s narrative, and Kishino’s performance plays a crucial role in conveying the character’s struggle and emotional depth. Underrated performances like this one can make a significant impact on players and contribute to the overall enjoyment and immersion of the game.

2. Sam Worthington as Alex Mason — Call of Duty: Black Ops

The “Call of Duty” franchise boasts a roster of iconic characters, each with their own unique traits and contributions to the series’ rich narrative. Alex Mason, portrayed by actor Sam Worthington, is a character known for his depth and complexity. He’s at the center of the storyline in “Call of Duty: Black Ops,” which features a gripping and twist-filled narrative.

Alex Mason might not receive as much attention as some of the other charismatic and quotable characters in the series, such as Viktor Reznov and Frank Woods. These characters have certainly left their mark on fans with their memorable lines and personalities.

Nevertheless, the presence of a deep and layered protagonist like Alex Mason adds to the overall richness of the “Call of Duty” series, offering players a more immersive and emotionally engaging experience. While he might not always be in the spotlight, his role is integral to the series’ storytelling and lit ands him an entry on our list of underrated voice actors.

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3. Nazneen Contractor as Jade Aldemir — Dying Light

“Dying Light” is known for its intense gameplay and parkour mechanics, but it’s true that character development has sometimes taken a back seat in favor of a more action centred approach. However, the character of Jade Aldemir, portrayed by actress Nazneen Contractor, has been praised as a standout in the series. Jade’s character brings depth and emotional weight to the narrative, and her interactions with the protagonist make her a central figure in the story.

While “Dying Light 2” may offer deeper character development overall, it’s important to acknowledge the impact that characters like Jade have had on the series and the player experience. Characters who resonate with players can leave a lasting impression and add a layer of depth to the gameplay-centric focus of the series and is with this reason why Jade Aldemir lands a role on our list of underrated voice actors.

4. Roger Cross as Ulysses — Fallout New Vegas

“Fallout: New Vegas” is often celebrated for its exceptional writing and storytelling, and Ulysses, portrayed by Roger Cross, is a character that plays a pivotal role in the game’s narrative. His enigmatic presence and the depth of his backstory add layers to the overall story of the Courier, and this earns him an entry on our list of underrated voice actors.

Ulysses was primarily featured in the “Lonesome Road” DLC, which means that players may not have as much interaction with him compared to some of the other characters in the main game. This exclusivity to a DLC makes him an underappreciated character for players who may not have explored that specific content thoroughly.

Nevertheless, Ulysses remains a compelling and memorable character in the “Fallout” series, and his role in the Courier’s story adds significant depth and intrigue to the game’s overarching narrative. His inclusion showcases the strength of character development in “Fallout: New Vegas” and shows the lasting impact that well-written characters can have on players.

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5. Gianpaolo Venuta as Jason Brody — Far Cry 3

Jason Brody, voiced by Gianpaolo Venuta.

Number 1 on our list of underrated voice actors is Jason Brody. Vaas, the antagonist of “Far Cry 3”, is undeniably a standout video game villain that has left a lasting impression on players. His character is often celebrated for his charisma and memorable quotes.

While Vaas may steal the spotlight as the antagonist, Jason’s character undergoes a significant transformation throughout the game’s narrative. His descent into a more ruthless and survival-driven persona is a central element of the story, and Venuta’s portrayal of this transformation is indeed praiseworthy.

Character development in video games, whether it’s the protagonist or antagonist, is a critical aspect of storytelling, and when done effectively, it can enhance the player’s connection to the narrative. Jason Brody’s character arc in “Far Cry 3” is a testament to how underrated voice actors can bring depth and authenticity to their roles, contributing to a more immersive gaming experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is the Underrated Voice Actor of Ishi Sato?

Andrew Kishino’s portrayal of Ishi Sato in the game is a testament to the depth and talent that voice actors bring to their roles. Ishi Sato’s character arc, as he grapples with a cybernetic takeover, adds a layer of complexity to the game’s narrative, and Kishino’s performance plays a crucial role in conveying the character’s struggle and emotional depth.

Who Is the Antagonist of Far Cry 3?

Vaas, the antagonist of “Far Cry 3,” is undeniably one of the standout video game villains and has left a lasting impression on players. His character is often celebrated for his charisma and memorable quotes.

Which Game Was Ulysses Featured Primarily in?

Ulysses was primarily featured in the “Lonesome Road” DLC, which means that players may not have as much interaction with him compared to some of the other characters in the main game. This exclusivity to a DLC can make him an underappreciated character for players who may not have explored that specific content thoroughly.