HoYoverse is developing a world filled with unique cultures and characters in Genshin Impact. Characters may become fan favorites due to the tremendous efforts of voice actors. Voice direction is an important element to consider for characters in Genshin Impact, and two of the game's English voice actors provide insight into the "incorrect" pronunciation that some players may have noticed.
Zach Aguilar, the English voice actor of Aether, recently streamed with Tighnari's English voice actor, Elliot Gindi, and discussed voice direction for characters in Genshin Impact. Specifically, Zach brought up the topic of pronunciation for Tighnari's name and how Elliot would pronounce the character's name. Genshin Impact's newest character from Sumeru, Tighnari, is seemingly derived from Middle Eastern culture. Although Elliot is of Middle Eastern descent, he's never heard the Arabic pronunciation of Tighnari. Additionally, a faithful pronunciation of Tighnari may be difficult for English-speaking audiences, so voice directors determine an easier pronunciation based on the wishes of the developer.
Voice direction is a key factor behind the pronunciation of Genshin Impact character names and directors consider the game's audiences when working with voice actors. The U.S. is one of Genshin Impact's biggest markets in the world and pronunciation may be determined by that English-speaking audience. If a character's name is difficult to pronounce, it may also be harder to introduce and advertise. As a result, voice actors are asked to pronounce names that were determined for the English localization.
The topic of pronunciation arose following debates within the Genshin Impact community about Tighnari's name. Zach Aguilar and Elliot Gindi addressed the topic to clear up misconceptions about English voice actors. Voice directors would only allow pronunciation that was determined for the localization, and voice actors like Zach and Elliot have to follow those directions for the script.
Genshin Impact blends many cultures together to create the thriving and vast world of Teyvat. As a result, misunderstandings may arise due to the clash of these cultures and the various languages being considered as the game continues to grow. The Genshin Impact community should try to understand this compromise for the sake of a game that continues to invite players from around the world.
Genshin Impact versions 3.1 through 3.5 will introduce even more characters with their own talented cast of voice actors. English voice acting should not be taken for granted as it helps deliver some of the most memorable moments in gaming today.
Genshin Impact is available now for Android, iOS, PC, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. A Nintendo Switch version is in development with no confirmed release date.
Source: r/GenshinImpact