Optimizing Game Development to Support Performance Actors

A recent panel discussion at the BAFTA Games Mental Health Summit highlighted the importance of creating a safe and inclusive work environment for performance actors in the gaming industry. The panel, which included voice actors Doug Cockle, Alix Wilton Regan, Jessica Hayles, and Robert Gilbert, emphasized the need for developers to prioritize actors' mental wellbeing and provide them with the necessary support to excel in their roles. Hosted by performance capture and voice director Kate Saxon, the discussion touched on various aspects of game development, from auditions to release, and how developers can foster a positive and supportive environment for actors. The panelists stressed that developers should provide actors with clear guidelines, respect their boundaries, and keep them informed throughout the development process. They also highlighted the importance of having a diverse and representative team, including researchers and intimacy coordinators, to ensure that actors feel comfortable and supported. The discussion also covered the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and how they can impact an actor's ability to connect with their character and understand the game's context. The panelists suggested that developers should trust actors with sensitive information and provide them with analogous reference materials to help them better understand their roles. By prioritizing actors' needs and well-being, developers can create a positive and productive work environment that benefits both the actors and the game development process as a whole.