Video games have evolved into an extraordinary medium for storytelling, allowing players to immerse themselves in rich narratives and complex characters. This unique form of engagement hinges significantly on the skill of voice actors, whose performances breathe life into digital personas. One such talent is Gabe Kunda, whose compelling interpretations resonate with millions across hit titles.
Kunda’s impressive repertoire ranges from KAY/O in Valorant to Newcastle in Apex Legends. His ability to inject emotion into synthetic roles has captivated fans, making him a standout voice actor in the gaming world. Recently, he took on the role of Blade in Marvel Rivals, a character who has generated substantial buzz among fans waiting eagerly for his debut.
How KAY/O and Newcastle Were Voiced With a Little More Soul and Heart
Gabe Kunda is celebrated in the gaming community for bringing iconic characters to life. His portrayal of KAY/O in Valorant showcases this talent. During auditions, Kunda opted to stray from the initial design of KAY/O, which was marked by a generic robotic tone. Instead, he infused the character with a “big bro” vibe, aiming for a more relatable, down-to-earth sound.
Rishabh: How did you approach voicing KAY/O, given that he’s a robot and requires a specific tone?
Gabe: Initially, I stuck to the brief, but after some thought, I recorded my lines again, leaning into a more relaxed, chill tone. This choice resonated with the creators at Riot Games, who felt I had truly captured the essence of the character.
This risk paid off—KAY/O became a fan favorite, combining military precision with a snarky attitude. One of Kunda’s favorite lines encapsulates this energy: “I know what they’re thinking, aimbot.”
His role as Newcastle in Apex Legends carries even deeper significance. Kunda recorded the character’s lines a day after losing his mother. Instead of rescheduling, he chose to channel his grief into the performance, giving Newcastle a poignant depth that resonates powerfully with players.
Rishabh: Did you draw on personal experiences to add weight to your portrayal of Newcastle?
Gabe: Absolutely. The emotions I felt were raw and close to the surface. Burying myself in work helped me cope, and I believe that depth translated into the character.
Daywalker with a Killer Playlist – Becoming Blade
Landing the role of Blade in Marvel Rivals was an unforgettable moment for Kunda—a chance he had envisioned. Interestingly, just days before auditioning, someone had asked him which Marvel character he’d love to voice. Blade was his answer.
Rishabh: What was your reaction when you received the call about the role?
Gabe: I was stunned! I had just expressed my desire to voice Blade, and a week later, I was cast. However, the excitement was tinged with uncertainty, as months passed without any recording sessions. I began to wonder if my role was in jeopardy.
Doubt crept in, especially when trailers were released featuring Blade’s growling voice, which wasn’t his. “I felt almost ghosted by the developers,” he joked. It wasn’t until June 2025 that he finally entered the recording studio.
Rishabh: Was it challenging to keep that under wraps, especially with all the speculation about Blade?
Gabe: I had no idea there was such buzz around the character. I saw leaks online and approached the developers, confused about how the character was already in talks without my input.
Despite the lengthy wait, Kunda’s portrayal of Blade has sparked excitement among fans. Players recognized his voice immediately upon hearing it in the game’s trailer, and the community’s reception was overwhelmingly positive.
“I didn’t want Blade to be just dark and one-dimensional,” Kunda shared. He aimed for a character that felt relatable and multi-dimensional, tapping into Blade’s humor and personality, especially in interactions with others.
Kunda’s choices reflect a deeper understanding of Blade. Moments like complimenting Psylocke’s outfit or discussing playlists reveal a lighter side, challenging the notion that he’s merely a brooding hero. These nuances enhance Blade’s complexity, making him more appealing to players.
Among various fan-favorite moments is Blade’s ultimate ability, which many compare to Vergil’s in Devil May Cry. “When I saw the animation for the first time, I couldn’t help but scream—‘You’re trying to implode the internet!’” he exclaimed, demonstrating his excitement for the character.
Have you had the chance to play any characters voiced by Gabe Kunda? Which one stands out for you?
What makes voice acting so impactful in video games? The emotional depth that voice actors bring to their characters is vital, allowing players to form connections that transcend the screen.
How do voice actors like Gabe Kunda prepare for their roles? They often draw from personal experiences and insights into the characters, tailoring their approach to give each one authenticity.
What challenges do voice actors face in the gaming industry? Long periods of uncertainty and fierce competition are commonplace, as many talented individuals vie for a single role.
What trends are emerging in video game voice acting? There’s a growing emphasis on character development and emotional storytelling, leading to increasingly nuanced performances.
As you dive deeper into the world of gaming, consider how voice actors like Gabe Kunda shape the narratives we love. Their craft is invaluable as it enriches our gaming experiences. To explore more on this captivating subject and beyond, visit Moyens I/O.