Darkest Dungeon Developer Honours Deceased Voice Actor
The developer of Darkest Dungeon, Red Hook Studios, has made it clear that they will not use artificial intelligence to replicate the voice of the late Wayne June. June was the iconic narrator of the game series. This decision was made public by studio co-founder Chris Bourassa in a reply to a post on the Darkest Dungeon subreddit, as reported by Kotaku.
A Legacy Respected
Bourassa assured fans that Red Hook will never use AI to attempt to copy June’s performance, as this would erode his legacy. In one of his last emails to Bourassa, June had given permission for his voice to be used to train an AI, something he had previously opposed. However, Bourassa declined this offer, and the studio donated to June’s family instead.
Red Hook
that June had passed away in January 2025.
The Importance of June’s Work
June’s narration played a significant role in bringing the dim-lit world of Darkest Dungeon to life, from the launch of the original game in 2016 to the sequel in 2023. Bourassa is aware of the importance of June’s work and does not want to see it imitated by a machine. He stated that he would never allow a hollow imitation made by artificial intelligence to be used in any future installments of the game.
Bourassa added that June’s voice and delivery were human, and he is grateful to have had the opportunity to write for him.
Concerns About AI in the Entertainment Industry
The use of AI in the entertainment industry has raised concerns in recent years. Some actors, such as Steve Downes, have spoken out against AI versions of their voices. In 2024, Robert Downey Jr. threatened to sue any executive who recreated his likeness using artificial intelligence.
The team behind the film As Deep as the Grave faced criticism for using an AI recreation of the late actor Val Kilmer. The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has announced rule updates that will bar AI performances from being nominated for Oscars in 2027.
