Irrational Games took no shortcuts in crafting a follow-up to the critically beloved BioShock. They built an entirely new setting, radically different gameplay mechanics, and wrote a pair of man characters from scratch, ex-Pinkerton agent Booker DeWitt and the mysteriously powerful Elizabeth.
A two-part video series posted by Machinima focuses on what it took to bring those characters to life, through interviews with voice actors Troy Baker and Courtnee Draper and Irrational's creative director, Ken Levine. While there aren't any new details or footage to be had, the behind the scenes look provides some fascinating insights into the unique blend of creative and technical processes that give Booker and Elizabeth their voices.
The real highlight of the series comes midway through part two, when we get to see footage from a recording session. In the clip, Ken and Troy employ some unorthodox techniques, verbally abusing Courtnee to help her deliver a line with the proper emotional impact, eventually driving her to tears. The process may be unsettling to watch, but the outcome is remarkable, and the actors' dedication is perhaps unrivaled in the medium.
If the commitment and artistry on display here shines through in every corner of the game's narrative, BioShock Infinite could well outshine its predecessor, and that's no small feat.
