Mortal Kombat's 'Toasty!' Voice Actor and Audio Director Dan Forden Departs NetherRealm Studios
A true legend of the fighting game genre, Dan Forden, the audio director widely recognized for the iconic 'Toasty!' Easter egg in the Mortal Kombat series, has officially left NetherRealm Studios. Forden's departure marks the end of an impressive 37-year journey in the video game industry, a career that began with the now-defunct Midway Games, where the Mortal Kombat saga first started.
Forden shared the news of his exit personally on social media, reflecting on his extensive tenure and achievements:
“Wednesday was my last day at NetherRealm. We’ve made a lot of cool stuff over the years. I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished and how much fun we had doing it. There are so many smart and talented people at the studio, and you should definitely expect more great things from them in the coming years. I also love the little things people leave around the office – like this little Toasty tribute on a bathroom mirror.
I wouldn’t have lasted 37 years in the industry if fans didn’t play our games. Thank you all for your support.
Live long and…Toasty!”
– Dan Forden
Dan Forden's contribution to Mortal Kombat extends far beyond just a memorable catchphrase. As a seasoned audio director, he played a crucial role in shaping the sonic landscape of one of gaming's most enduring franchises. The 'Toasty!' pop-up, often accompanied by Forden's digitized face, became a beloved secret, adding a layer of humor and mystique to the brutal fights, cementing his place in gaming lore.
As for what comes next for Forden, those plans remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, NetherRealm Studios is expected to shift its focus entirely to its next major project following the conclusion of content support for Mortal Kombat 1. Speculation is rife that this next title will be Injustice 3, continuing the studio's highly successful DC Comics fighting game series.
Forden's exit closes a significant chapter for the Mortal Kombat series and NetherRealm. While his presence will surely be missed, his legacy, particularly the joy and surprise brought by a simple word and a smiling face, will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans for many years to come.
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