Time We Discuss: Video Game Voiceover Star - Gina Scarpa
Watch/Listen to this Episode Video Game Voiceover Star - Gina Scarpa
Gina Scarpa, an accomplished voiceover artist, has made a name for herself in the industry, particularly in the world of video games. With an extensive portfolio that includes work with major brands such as Nintendo, Scarpa has successfully merged her passion for gaming with her career in voice acting. Her journey from marketing professional to a sought-after video game voiceover artist provides valuable insights for aspiring talent looking to break into the industry.
Scarpa's voiceover career began in 2014 when she started working on freelance platforms with basic equipment. However, it wasn't until she invested in professional coaching, high-quality demos, and industry networking that she began landing bigger opportunities. She credits her background in marketing as a significant advantage, particularly in optimizing her online presence and leveraging SEO strategies to attract potential clients.
One of Scarpa's most notable projects includes voicing the trailer for Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. She describes the experience as a dream come true and highlights the importance of being able to take creative direction in real-time. According to Scarpa, video game voiceover work requires adaptability, emotional range, and the ability to bring characters to life based on minimal context and dynamic direction from game developers.
Breaking into the video game voiceover industry is highly competitive, but Scarpa emphasizes that persistence, proper training, and strategic networking can make all the difference. She advises aspiring voice actors to take specialized coaching for character work, invest in high-quality demos, and seek representation through agents or talent management companies. Additionally, self-marketing plays a crucial roleāmaintaining a professional website, optimizing SEO with relevant keywords, and networking within gaming communities can increase visibility.
Scarpa's extensive experience in video game voiceover extends beyond Nintendo titles. She has contributed her voice to games like The Walking Dead, Genshin Impact, and Fortnite, solidifying her reputation in the industry. She also coaches new talent, helping them refine their skills and navigate the business side of voice acting. Scarpa stresses the importance of resilience in the field, as success doesn't happen overnight. It takes years of training, auditioning, and rejection before securing high-profile roles.
For those looking to get started, Scarpa recommends developing a strong understanding of gaming culture, since familiarity with different video game genres and characters can enhance performance. Additionally, setting up a professional-grade home studio is essential, as remote voiceover work has become the industry standard. Aspiring artists should also keep an eye on casting calls from indie developers, as these opportunities can serve as stepping stones to larger projects.
With the rise of artificial intelligence in voice technology, Scarpa acknowledges industry concerns but remains confident that human voice actors bring a level of emotional depth and nuance that AI cannot replicate. She supports organizations like the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA), which advocates for voice talent rights and protections in the evolving industry landscape.
Gina Scarpa's journey exemplifies how dedication, skill, and strategic branding can turn a passion for gaming into a thriving career. Aspiring voiceover artists looking to break into the video game industry can learn from her experience and take actionable steps to build their own successful careers.
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Also Mentioned in This Episode:
- Starting an Esports Platform
- Voiceover Artist
- Technology Author / Novelist, Charles Breakfield
- Become a Talent Manager or Agent
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