Steps to Become a Voice Actor in Video Games at Age 26

At age 26, your son has shown a keen interest in pursuing a career as a voice actor specifically for video games. This is an exciting and challenging field that requires both acting and vocal skills. Here are detailed steps to help him get started and achieve his dreams.

Foundational Skills and Training

The first step is to build a strong foundation in voice acting and acting skills. Local coaches and schools that specialize in voice over and acting are an excellent place to begin. These institutions typically offer classes tailored to voice actors and provide a supportive environment for learners. If local options are limited, reputable online coaches can also be a viable choice. Ensure that the coach or school has a good reputation and experience working with aspiring actors, especially kids if your son is younger.

Exploring Local Opportunities

Living in a metropolitan area such as New York or Los Angeles can greatly enhance your son’s chances of starting his career. These cities are hubs for the voice acting industry, especially for video games. However, even if you are not in a big city, there are still opportunities available. Look online for local student films and low-budget commercials that may need voice work. This is a great way to gain experience and build a portfolio. Initially, he might need to volunteer or accept unpaid or low-paid work to establish himself and create a sample reel. A sample reel or highlight reel is a collection of voice acting clips that showcase his abilities and experience. It’s essential to have a professional and polished sample reel to attract potential clients.

Online Resources and Coaching

For remote coaching, there are several excellent resources. For instance, Edge Studio offers high-quality coaching services for voice actors. Additionally, look for a local voice over coach who has experience in video games. Video game voice acting requires a unique blend of acting and vocal skills, so finding the right coach or mentor is crucial. Acting classes can also be beneficial, as most video game voice work involves dramatic roles. If your son lives in Chicago or Los Angeles, he might consider attending classes at Second City, which offers specific training in voice over acting for video games. Second City is known for its comprehensive acting training, making it an ideal choice for aspiring voice actors.

Creating a Professional Demo

To take his career to the next level, your son will need to create a professional demo. A demo is akin to a headshot for actors, serving as a calling card to introduce him to prospective clients in the industry. While creating a demo may require some investment, it is a necessary step to showcase his skills and attract attention. He can invest in professional recording equipment and find a reputable studio to record his demo. Once he has a demo, he can showcase it on his resume, social media, and other platforms to increase his visibility in the industry.

Securing Representation

After gaining experience and a strong portfolio, the next step is to secure representation from a talent agent. Talent agents in the voice acting industry can help your son connect with producers, directors, and other industry professionals. Finding the right agent is crucial, as they can open doors to new opportunities and projects. Encourage him to research and interview several agents to find the best fit. Agents in the voice acting industry can provide invaluable support and guidance, helping him navigate the complexities of the business.

Encourage your son to proceed with enthusiasm and dedication. The world of voice acting for video games is diverse and exciting, offering numerous opportunities for talented individuals. With the right training, experience, and support, he can turn his passion into a successful career.

Conclusion: With the right steps and resources, your son can effectively start his journey as a voice actor in video games. Whether through local or online resources, gaining practical experience, and securing professional representation, the path is clear. Encourage him to persevere and he will be well on his way to a successful career.