Idris Elba Views Presence of Actors in Video Games Like Phantom Liberty as a Reflection of Current Trends.

British actor Idris Elba, known for his roles in film and television, has expressed his newfound appreciation for video games after his latest role. Elba stars as Solomon Reed in the latest expansion for Cyberpunk 2077 called Phantom Liberty, a spy-thriller adventure. When asked about the growing presence of actors in video games, Elba sees it as a sign of the times and notes that more notable film actors are making their way into the gaming industry. In recent years, A-list actors and celebrities like Kit Harington, Rami Malek, and Conan O'Brien have taken on character roles in video games. Elba acknowledges the increasing quality of storytelling in games, particularly with the inclusion of film-like cutscenes that are both entertaining and immersive. He mentions that the process of acting in a game is similar to traditional acting, as it requires character work and performance. However, collaboration in gaming is more extensive, as actors rely on animators and larger teams. Elba envisions a future where film and video games merge, potentially through virtual reality. Phantom Liberty, developed by CD Projekt RED, is a story set after the main game of Cyberpunk 2077. The player, alongside intelligence agent Solomon Reed, must save the president of the New United States of America. The expansion introduces new characters, abilities, and storylines to enhance gameplay. While Phantom Liberty is not Elba's first venture into the world of video games, it is his first significant performance as a primary character. Despite the challenges involved, Elba found the filming process enjoyable and interesting, thanks to technological advancements. He draws from his previous experiences with motion capture and working with motion capture specialist Andy Serkis. Elba expresses his admiration for the art form of video games, acknowledging the complexity and meticulousness required in recording dialogue and reacting to different player choices. Critics have praised Phantom Liberty as a strong expansion, with Elba's performance adding understated energy to the game. When asked about the potential for video games to tackle humanitarian and global issues, Elba believes that the medium has the tools to engage people and educate them about different cultures. As a self-professed gamer, Elba admits that he rarely watches his own performances but intends to play Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty due to his significant investment in its creation.