Last weekend, fans of Warframe gathered in London, Ontario, for TennoCon, an event dedicated to the popular MMO. It was a packed weekend filled with panels, demos, and announcements. Digital Trends had the opportunity to attend the show and experience a preview of Warframe: 1999. This upcoming update to the long-running series promises new storylines, weapons, and even some romance in an alternate version of the Y2K era.
The highlight of this expansion is the character Arthur Nightingale, voiced by Ben Starr, known for his roles in Final Fantasy XVI and his engaging online presence. In an interview at TennoCon, Ben Starr shared insights about his character Arthur Nightingale in Warframe: 1999, his fondness for late ’90s nostalgia, and his talent for comedy – along with his tongue-in-cheek presidential position in the “gerbil breeding society.”
Reflecting on the year 1999, Ben Starr shares:
1999 holds a special place in my memory. The looming Y2K scare, the anticipation of a new millennium – it was a time filled with excitement and uncertainty. The aesthetic of Warframe: 1999 captures that nostalgic essence perfectly, offering a reinterpretation of what the ’90s represented in our minds.
Exploring the character of Arthur Nightingale:
Arthur Nightingale serves as the anchor in Warframe: 1999, embodying the spirit of a boy scout and guiding players into this alternate world. His character allows other personas to shine, bringing a depth and richness to the storyline.
On developing a voice for Arthur:
Creating Arthur’s voice involved studying his movements and imagining the experiences that shaped him. The process was a blend of visual cues, character traits, and a touch of realism to bring out the essence of this enigmatic character.
Personal touches in portraying a character:
While portraying a character, it’s essential to infuse elements of oneself for a touch of authenticity. Finding connections between one’s own persona and the character adds a layer of realism that resonates with players.
Comedic influences and personal style:
Ben Starr draws inspiration from British comedians like Steve Coogan and Armando Iannucci, known for their brilliant humor and unique storytelling. Comedy has always been a significant part of his life, offering a lens through which to navigate challenges and find joy.
On the quirky Wikipedia entry:
The infamous mention of Ben Starr as the president of a gerbil breeding society stems from a playful addition by a fan. Despite its fictitious nature, Ben has embraced the quirky entry, adding a touch of whimsy to his online persona.
Upcoming release:
Warframe: 1999, featuring Ben Starr, is set to release in winter 2024 for various gaming platforms including PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
