The Ongoing Genshin Impact Kinich English VA Controversy
The Genshin Impact community is currently embroiled in a heated debate surrounding the recasting of Kinich’s English voice actor (VA). Initially, many players supported the SAG-AFTRA strike and its implications for the English voice actors. However, sentiments have shifted dramatically, with a growing faction from both the English and Chinese player communities advocating for a recast.
Community Reactions to the VA Dispute
Corina Boettger, the voice behind Paimon, has been outspoken throughout this controversy. She openly criticized Jacob Takanashi for accepting the role of Kinich, which many believe was taken from an actor currently on strike. Her remarks gained traction after a TikTok surfaced, in which she expressed that if voice actors desire union representation, games should adhere to that standard. Her comments have sparked significant backlash, particularly when she referred to members of the Genshin Impact community as “idiots.”This reaction drew ire, leading some players to openly demand her replacement.
The voice of Paimon, everybody by u/Tenk-o in Genshin_Impact
Shifts in Public Sentiment
As public sentiment evolved, many players began advocating for a recast of Paimon. Comments such as “Bro please just recast her”highlight a growing consensus among fans dissatisfied with Boettger’s comments. While some frustrations have been directed at Paimon’s character itself, it’s worth noting that many players urge the community to separate the character from the actor who voices her.
The Underlying Issues at Stake
Amid these developments, some community members have pointed out that Corina failed to address the key issues that prompted the SAG-AFTRA strike, such as the need for safeguards against unethical uses of AI technology in voice acting. This oversight has led to apprehension that the current conflict is being exploited to push Genshin Impact towards unionization, despite the game’s existing protections under Chinese regulations.
Voices Supporting Recasting
A significant portion of the community echoes the sentiment that the conversation has shifted away from legitimate concerns like AI safety to what feels like attempts to dominate the narrative regarding the game’s union status. Comments from various users emphasize how this shift not only distracts from vital issues but also undermines the reputation of SAG-AFTRA itself.
Comment by u/Tenk-o from discussion in Genshin_Impact
The Trigger for the Kinich VA Controversy
The controversy ignited following the replacement of John Patneaude, the original English VA for Kinich, by Jacob Takanashi in Genshin Impact version 5.5. Takanashi’s announcement expressing gratitude for the role soon came under fire from several fellow voice actors, including Boettger, Kayli Mills, and Brianna Knickerbocker. These individuals criticized Takanashi extensively for accepting a role meant for an actor on strike.
Community Response to the VA Change
The ongoing backlash underscores a broader discontent with the behavior displayed by certain English voice actors, who many believe are behaving unprofessionally, particularly toward Takanashi. This situation reflects a significant divide within the voice acting community as well as the Genshin Impact player base, leading to increasing calls for a recast and a reevaluation of the dialogue surrounding unionization.
For further details on the controversy, you can refer to the original source for an in-depth view of the events.