In the ever-expanding universe of Destiny 2, the voice actors play an integral role in bringing the game’s characters to life. Whether it’s the commanding presence of Zavala, the mysterious allure of the Drifter, or the sarcastic wit of Cayde-6, these voices add depth and personality to the game’s vast narrative. The voice acting talent in Destiny 2 has consistently impressed players, and some of the industry’s biggest names have contributed to the game. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the voice actors behind the key characters, examining their performances and how they enhance the overall gaming experience.
Table of Contents
Zavala: Lance Reddick’s Steadfast Leadership
Commander Zavala, the Titan Vanguard, is one of the most iconic characters in Destiny 2. His voice, portrayed by the late Lance Reddick, has become synonymous with the stoic leadership and unwavering dedication that defines Zavala’s character. Reddick’s deep, resonant voice perfectly captures the gravity of a leader who has seen countless Guardians fall in battle, yet remains committed to defending humanity.
Lance Reddick’s Performance
Lance Reddick’s performance as Zavala is nothing short of exceptional. His portrayal gives Zavala an air of authority and strength, essential traits for the leader of the Vanguard. Reddick’s delivery is measured and deliberate, making Zavala sound calm and collected, even in the face of overwhelming odds. This makes his character not just a commander, but also a mentor figure for the player.
One of Reddick’s most memorable moments comes during the Red War campaign, where Zavala faces the collapse of the Last City. His voice quivers slightly when discussing the loss, revealing the emotional toll of leadership. Yet, Zavala never loses his resolve, thanks to Reddick’s masterful control of tone. Even when delivering commands, Reddick infuses Zavala’s lines with emotional depth, showcasing a vulnerability beneath the surface. This nuanced portrayal transforms Zavala from a mere authority figure into a well-rounded, deeply sympathetic character.
Lance Reddick’s portrayal of Zavala is perhaps best recognized during moments of reflection or battle preparation. Lines such as, “Our enemies think themselves gods and kings. Show them the error of their ways” resonate with players long after they leave the Tower. His ability to combine gravitas with moments of subtle emotion has cemented Zavala as a fan favorite.
Impact on the Game
Reddick’s performance imbues the world of Destiny 2 with a sense of purpose. His steady and authoritative tone makes players feel that Zavala is always in control, even when the situation is dire. His voice serves as a comforting constant, particularly during the darker moments of the game’s narrative. Reddick’s performance enhances the overall atmosphere, making the player feel more connected to the world of the Guardians.
Cayde-6: Nathan Fillion and Nolan North’s Witty Charm
Cayde-6, the wisecracking Hunter Vanguard, was voiced by two beloved actors: Nathan Fillion and, later, Nolan North. Both actors brought their unique flair to the character, with Fillion portraying Cayde as a lovable rogue and North continuing the legacy after Fillion’s departure. Cayde-6 is often remembered for his humor and light-heartedness, a stark contrast to the seriousness of other key characters.
Nathan Fillion’s Performance
Nathan Fillion’s portrayal of Cayde-6 made the character an instant hit with players. Known for his roles in Firefly and Castle, Fillion’s charismatic and comedic style translated seamlessly into the world of Destiny 2. Fillion infused Cayde-6 with a devil-may-care attitude that provided a much-needed break from the seriousness of the overarching story. Whether delivering sarcastic one-liners or poking fun at the other characters, Fillion’s Cayde-6 was always a source of levity.
Fillion’s voice acting made Cayde-6’s death in the Forsaken expansion all the more impactful. The way Fillion transitioned from Cayde’s usual jokey demeanor to a more serious tone as his character faced his demise left a lasting impression on fans. His last moments—filled with humor, but tinged with the weight of impending death—were a testament to Fillion’s range as an actor. The line, “This is really going to hurt,” delivered with both dread and humor, encapsulated Cayde-6’s character perfectly.
Nolan North’s Performance
After Fillion’s departure, Nolan North, a veteran voice actor known for his role as Nathan Drake in the Uncharted series, stepped in to continue the role of Cayde-6. North maintained much of Fillion’s style while adding his own touch to the character. His portrayal was particularly strong during Cayde-6’s final moments in Forsaken, where North captured both the humor and the vulnerability of the character.
While the switch between actors could have felt jarring, North’s seamless transition ensured that Cayde-6 remained consistent throughout his story arc. North’s ability to embody the character while respecting Fillion’s original interpretation speaks to his versatility as an actor. Even though his time as Cayde-6 was brief, North’s performance helped solidify the emotional weight of Cayde’s passing.
Impact on the Game
Cayde-6 was the heart and humor of Destiny 2, and both Fillion and North contributed to his status as one of the game’s most beloved characters. Cayde’s banter and irreverence brought a sense of fun to a world often filled with war and sorrow. His death marked a turning point in the game’s narrative, and it was Fillion and North’s performances that made his absence deeply felt by players.
Ikora Rey: Gina Torres’ Quiet Strength
As the Warlock Vanguard, Ikora Rey is a powerful figure, and her voice actor, Gina Torres, portrays her with the quiet strength and wisdom that defines her character. Torres, known for her work in Firefly and Suits, brings a sense of calm authority to Ikora, who is often the voice of reason in the Vanguard. While Ikora’s role is sometimes more reserved compared to Zavala or Cayde, her presence is always felt, thanks to Torres’ excellent voice work.
Gina Torres’ Performance
Gina Torres’ portrayal of Ikora is defined by restraint and grace. Unlike Zavala’s overt leadership or Cayde’s flashy charisma, Ikora’s power comes from her intellect and inner strength. Torres captures this perfectly, giving Ikora a composed, almost serene tone, even when discussing the most dangerous threats to humanity. This contrasts with the emotional turmoil Ikora experiences during the Red War campaign when the City falls, and she struggles with feelings of failure and doubt.
Torres’ performance shines during Ikora’s moments of introspection. In The Witch Queen expansion, where Ikora plays a key role, Torres expertly navigates the complexity of the character, especially when Ikora questions her own decisions and leadership. The vulnerability that Torres injects into Ikora’s dialogue makes her more relatable and human, despite her immense power.
Impact on the Game
Ikora Rey’s voice performance adds depth to her character, making her one of the most interesting and multifaceted figures in Destiny 2. Torres’ ability to portray both Ikora’s wisdom and her internal struggles enhances the emotional resonance of the game’s story. When Ikora speaks, players listen, not because she is loud or commanding, but because Torres’ performance exudes a quiet authority that demands attention.
The Drifter: Todd Haberkorn’s Mysterious Charisma
The Drifter is one of the most enigmatic characters in Destiny 2, and his voice actor, Todd Haberkorn, brings a unique and charismatic flair to the role. As the host of Gambit and a morally ambiguous figure, the Drifter operates in shades of gray, and Haberkorn’s voice work captures the character’s unpredictability and charm.
Todd Haberkorn’s Performance
Todd Haberkorn delivers a performance that makes the Drifter simultaneously likable and untrustworthy. His laid-back, almost casual tone when discussing life-and-death matters gives the Drifter an edge. Haberkorn’s voice has a certain swagger, making the Drifter feel like someone who’s seen it all and doesn’t take much seriously—except when it comes to survival.
One of the Drifter’s most memorable lines, “You ever been to the Nine Realms? I don’t recommend it,” showcases Haberkorn’s ability to infuse his dialogue with both mystery and humor. His performance makes players question whether they can truly trust the Drifter, adding layers to his character and keeping interactions with him engaging.
Impact on the Game
The Drifter is a central figure in Gambit, and Haberkorn’s portrayal makes this game mode feel more unique and personal. His morally ambiguous nature is reflected in his voice, and Haberkorn’s performance adds depth to the Drifter’s role in the overall narrative. The Drifter’s voice makes players feel like they’re stepping into uncharted territory, with a guide who’s just as likely to double-cross them as help them.
The Ghost: Nolan North’s Versatility
Nolan North doesn’t just voice Cayde-6; he also portrays the Ghost, the player’s constant companion throughout Destiny 2. North took over the role of Ghost from Peter Dinklage, who voiced the character in the original Destiny. North’s version of the Ghost is more energetic and expressive, making him feel like a true partner to the player, rather than just a passive guide.
Nolan North’s Performance as Ghost
Nolan North’s portrayal of the Ghost stands out for its balance between technical knowledge, emotional investment, and levity. As the Guardian’s companion, Ghost serves as the player’s guide, providing vital information about the world, missions, and objectives. What makes North’s performance remarkable is how he makes the Ghost feel more than just a robotic assistant—his voice acting gives Ghost personality, humor, and heart.
North’s Ghost is curious, compassionate, and sometimes playful, which helps lighten the mood during otherwise intense moments in the game. One of the best examples of this is when the Ghost quips about the strange, alien worlds the Guardian visits: “We’ve woken the Hive!”—a line that became an iconic meme in the community due to North’s memorable delivery.
However, North’s ability to portray vulnerability is what truly rounds out his portrayal. Throughout various storylines, Ghost becomes emotionally invested in the Guardian’s journey, especially when dealing with characters like the Drifter or during pivotal moments such as the loss of Cayde-6. The Ghost’s sorrow and worry are palpable, especially during the Red War campaign, where Ghost is damaged and separated from the Guardian for the first time. In these moments, North’s performance excels at making the player feel the weight of the situation.
Impact on the Game
Nolan North’s performance as Ghost not only gives the player a sense of companionship throughout Destiny 2, but it also adds a layer of warmth and engagement that enriches the entire experience. Ghost is the player’s constant in a world filled with changing threats and allies, and North’s voice ensures that players feel connected to their Guardian’s journey. His humor, insights, and emotional depth turn Ghost from just a game mechanic into a beloved character in the Destiny 2 universe.
Osiris: Oded Fehr’s Commanding Presence
Osiris, the Warlock Vanguard exiled for his dangerous research into the Vex, is voiced by Oded Fehr. Known for his roles in The Mummy and Resident Evil, Fehr brings a commanding and intellectual gravitas to the character. Osiris is one of the most enigmatic and powerful characters in Destiny 2, and Fehr’s portrayal perfectly captures the weight of the Warlock’s presence.
Oded Fehr’s Performance
Oded Fehr’s voice acting as Osiris is defined by an air of authority and wisdom. Fehr delivers Osiris’ lines with a calm, measured tone, reflecting his character’s deep understanding of the universe and the risks it holds. There’s a sense of mystery in Fehr’s performance, which fits Osiris’ role as a figure who operates on the fringes of the Vanguard, often dabbling in dangerous knowledge to uncover greater truths.
Fehr excels in portraying Osiris’ unwavering dedication to his cause. This is particularly evident in the Curse of Osiris expansion, where Osiris is focused on solving the mysteries of the Vex and preventing catastrophic events from unfolding. His confidence in his abilities is never in question, and Fehr’s voice work instills in the player a sense of trust that, despite his questionable methods, Osiris is ultimately working for the greater good.
However, Fehr also imbues Osiris with a subtle vulnerability when the character is confronted with failure or uncertainty. For example, in the Season of the Dawn storyline, Osiris struggles to save his beloved friend Saint-14, and Fehr’s performance captures the tension between Osiris’ confidence and his fear of losing someone close to him.
Impact on the Game
Oded Fehr’s performance elevates Osiris from a mere plot device to a fully realized character. His portrayal gives Osiris the depth and complexity needed for a figure of his importance. Fehr’s voice acting makes Osiris feel like a vital part of the Destiny 2 lore, adding layers to his relationship with other characters, especially Ikora and Saint-14. Fehr’s commanding presence ensures that whenever Osiris appears, players know they are in the presence of one of the most powerful and knowledgeable figures in the universe.
Saint-14: Brian T. Delaney’s Heroic Warmth
Saint-14 is one of the most legendary Titans in the Destiny universe, and his voice actor, Brian T. Delaney, brings a heroic and endearing warmth to the character. Saint-14’s story is one of self-sacrifice and honor, and Delaney’s portrayal makes him not only a symbol of strength but also a beloved figure among players.
Brian T. Delaney’s Performance
Brian T. Delaney’s portrayal of Saint-14 is filled with a sense of old-fashioned heroism. His voice exudes confidence, bravery, and an unwavering belief in the power of the Light. What sets Delaney’s performance apart is the sense of humility and kindness that he brings to Saint-14. Despite his status as a legendary Titan, Saint-14 is often portrayed as a compassionate figure, especially in his interactions with the player and other characters.
One of Saint-14’s most memorable moments is his heartfelt message to the player in Season of the Dawn, where he says, “I do not think you will ever be alone.” Delaney’s delivery of this line is filled with sincerity, capturing Saint-14’s role as both a mentor and a protector. His portrayal gives Saint-14 a deeply human side, making the character relatable despite his mythic status.
Delaney also brings a sense of nostalgia to the character, particularly in moments when Saint-14 reflects on the past. His voice carries the weight of years of battle, sacrifice, and loss, but also the joy of having lived a life of purpose. This emotional range makes Saint-14 one of the most beloved characters in the Destiny universe.
Impact on the Game
Brian T. Delaney’s voice acting is one of the key reasons Saint-14 has become such a cherished character in Destiny 2. His portrayal makes Saint-14 feel like more than just a legendary warrior; he is a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of hope for both the player and other characters in the game. Delaney’s performance adds heart to the Destiny 2 narrative, ensuring that Saint-14’s legacy will be remembered long after his story has been told.
Mara Sov: Kirsten Potter’s Regal Authority
Mara Sov, the Queen of the Awoken, is one of the most mysterious and powerful figures in the Destiny 2 universe. Kirsten Potter voices the enigmatic queen with a regal authority that perfectly suits Mara Sov’s complex nature. Mara is a character who commands respect and fear in equal measure, and Potter’s performance reflects this duality.
Kirsten Potter’s Performance
Kirsten Potter’s portrayal of Mara Sov is marked by her ability to project both strength and subtle manipulation. Potter’s voice is calm, collected, and measured, giving Mara an air of control that makes her one of the most formidable characters in Destiny 2. Her performance exudes confidence, making it clear that Mara Sov is always several steps ahead of everyone else.
What makes Potter’s portrayal particularly effective is how she conveys Mara’s cold, calculated nature without making her unlikable. While Mara is often distant and inscrutable, Potter’s voice acting hints at the emotional depth and personal sacrifices that define her character. This is especially evident in her interactions with her brother, Uldren Sov (later known as the Crow). Potter’s voice softens slightly when speaking of Uldren, revealing a rare glimpse of Mara’s vulnerability beneath her stoic exterior.
In the Season of the Lost, where Mara Sov plays a central role, Potter’s performance carries the weight of years of hidden machinations and personal loss. Her ability to deliver lines with a sense of quiet authority, while still leaving room for emotional depth, makes Mara one of the most fascinating characters in the game.
Impact on the Game
Kirsten Potter’s voice work as Mara Sov adds an element of intrigue and complexity to the Destiny 2 narrative. Mara’s role as a queen, strategist, and sister is brought to life through Potter’s carefully crafted performance. She captures the essence of a character who is as much a ruler as she is a mystery, leaving players eager to learn more about her motivations and plans. Potter’s performance ensures that Mara Sov remains a central and captivating figure in the game’s ongoing story.
The Exo Stranger: Lauren Cohan’s Emotional Subtlety
The Exo Stranger, voiced by Lauren Cohan, is a character that has long been shrouded in mystery since her introduction in the original Destiny. Known for her work on The Walking Dead, Cohan brings emotional depth and subtlety to the Exo Stranger, making her one of the most intriguing characters in the Destiny lore.
Lauren Cohan’s Performance
Lauren Cohan’s portrayal of the Exo Stranger is marked by her ability to convey a sense of quiet determination. The Exo Stranger is someone who has experienced countless timelines and battles, and Cohan’s voice reflects the weight of those experiences. There’s a sense of weariness in her performance, as if the Exo Stranger has seen too much, but is still driven by an unshakable sense of duty.
Cohan’s ability to convey emotion through subtle vocal inflections makes the Exo Stranger’s moments of vulnerability all the more powerful. In the Beyond Light expansion, the Exo Stranger plays a key role in helping the Guardian understand the nature of the Darkness. Cohan’s performance captures the character’s internal conflict, as she tries to balance her past mistakes with her desire to set things right in the present.
One of the standout moments for Cohan’s portrayal is when the Exo Stranger reveals her connection to the Guardian and the importance of her role in the Destiny universe. In Beyond Light, players learn that the Exo Stranger is actually Elsie Bray, a member of the Bray family and sister to Ana Bray. This revelation adds layers of complexity to her character, and Lauren Cohan’s voice acting shines in these emotional moments.
Cohan’s performance delicately balances the Exo Stranger’s hardened exterior with the emotional weight of her personal history. Her subtle vocal nuances, especially when talking about her family and the burden of time-traveling through various timelines, convey a deep sense of regret and hope. There’s a tenderness to her voice when she speaks of Ana, and a determined resolve when she talks about preventing the same mistakes from happening again. Cohan masterfully portrays a character who has lived through countless failures but refuses to give up.
Impact on the Game
Lauren Cohan’s portrayal of the Exo Stranger adds significant emotional depth to the Destiny 2 narrative. Her performance makes the Exo Stranger feel like a fully realized character, driven by complex motivations and haunted by her past. Cohan’s ability to convey subtle emotional undertones ensures that the Exo Stranger’s journey resonates with players, especially as they uncover more of her backstory and her connection to the larger Destiny universe. Her return in Beyond Light was one of the expansion’s highlights, offering both nostalgic fans and new players a character with significant lore implications and emotional resonance.
The Drifter: Todd Haberkorn’s Playful Rogue
The Drifter, one of the most morally ambiguous and unpredictable characters in Destiny 2, is voiced by Todd Haberkorn. Haberkorn’s portrayal perfectly captures the Drifter’s rogueish charm, giving the character a unique blend of humor, danger, and mystery. As the operator of the Gambit mode and a key figure in several storylines, the Drifter stands apart from other characters in the Destiny universe, and Haberkorn’s performance plays a crucial role in making him such a fan favorite.
Todd Haberkorn’s Performance
Haberkorn’s voice acting for the Drifter is characterized by a laid-back, almost mischievous quality. He brings a sense of unpredictability to the character, making the Drifter feel like someone who’s always playing both sides, never fully revealing his true motives. Haberkorn’s playful, smooth-talking delivery gives the Drifter a certain swagger, making him likable despite his morally gray actions.
One of Haberkorn’s strengths is his ability to make the Drifter both humorous and menacing. The Drifter often cracks jokes or makes snarky remarks during Gambit matches, giving players a sense of levity amidst the chaos of battle. However, there’s always an underlying tension in his voice, as if he knows more than he’s letting on. This duality is what makes the Drifter such a fascinating character—he’s charming and fun, but also dangerous and potentially untrustworthy.
In the Season of the Drifter, Haberkorn’s performance adds layers to the character as players learn more about his past dealings with the Darkness and the Nine. His voice takes on a more serious tone during these moments, hinting at the Drifter’s inner turmoil and his struggle to balance his survival instincts with the ethical implications of his actions. Haberkorn skillfully portrays a character who is deeply conflicted, yet still maintains his trademark charm and wit.
Impact on the Game
Todd Haberkorn’s performance as the Drifter has had a significant impact on how players view the character. The Drifter’s unique personality stands out in a game filled with larger-than-life heroes and villains, offering a refreshing change of pace. Haberkorn’s voice acting makes the Drifter feel like a real wildcard in the Destiny 2 universe, adding an element of unpredictability to the game’s storylines. His performance helps make Gambit one of the most memorable and engaging game modes, thanks in large part to the Drifter’s witty commentary and unpredictable nature.
Shaxx: Lennie James’ Powerful Leadership
Commander Shaxx, the booming voice behind the Crucible, is portrayed by Lennie James, a British actor known for his roles in The Walking Dead and Jericho. As one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in Destiny 2, Shaxx is known for his passion, intensity, and dedication to training Guardians in combat. Lennie James’ powerful voice acting brings Shaxx’s larger-than-life personality to the forefront, making him a fan-favorite character in the game.
Lennie James’ Performance
Lennie James delivers Shaxx’s lines with a level of enthusiasm and authority that perfectly suits the character. Shaxx is a warrior at heart, and James’ deep, commanding voice brings a sense of urgency and excitement to every Crucible match. Whether he’s cheering on the player for a well-executed kill or encouraging them to push harder during a tough battle, James’ performance as Shaxx is filled with energy and intensity.
What makes James’ portrayal particularly enjoyable is the passion he brings to Shaxx’s dialogue. Shaxx isn’t just a leader—he’s someone who genuinely loves battle and sees the Crucible as a way for Guardians to reach their full potential. His voice booms with excitement when things are going well and with frustration when players aren’t living up to his expectations. James captures Shaxx’s larger-than-life persona, making him feel like the ultimate coach, always pushing the Guardian to be better, stronger, and faster.
Despite Shaxx’s intensity, Lennie James also brings moments of humor and camaraderie to the character. Shaxx’s banter with other characters, particularly Lord Saladin and Zavala, is filled with playful jabs and rivalry. James’ performance helps humanize Shaxx, showing that beneath his fierce exterior is a character who cares deeply about the Guardians under his command.
Impact on the Game
Lennie James’ voice acting has cemented Shaxx as one of the most iconic characters in Destiny 2. His booming voice and unrelenting enthusiasm for the Crucible make every PvP match feel like an epic battle. James’ performance brings a level of excitement and intensity that makes Shaxx more than just an NPC—he’s the heart and soul of the Crucible, embodying the competitive spirit that drives Guardians to improve. Players look forward to hearing Shaxx’s energetic commentary, and his voice has become synonymous with the thrill of PvP combat in the game.
The Crow: Brandon O’Neill’s Redemption Arc
Brandon O’Neill voices Uldren Sov, the former Prince of the Awoken who becomes the Crow after his resurrection as a Guardian. O’Neill’s portrayal of Crow is one of the most emotionally complex in Destiny 2, as the character undergoes a profound transformation from villain to tragic hero. O’Neill’s performance captures this journey beautifully, making Crow one of the most compelling characters in the game.
Brandon O’Neill’s Performance
O’Neill’s portrayal of Uldren Sov as the Crow is layered with emotional depth. Initially introduced as the antagonist in the Forsaken expansion, Uldren was responsible for the death of Cayde-6, a fan-favorite character. O’Neill’s performance in Forsaken was filled with arrogance and cruelty, making Uldren a hated figure. However, after his resurrection as the Crow, O’Neill’s portrayal shifts dramatically, showing a character who is lost, confused, and searching for redemption.
As Crow, O’Neill’s voice takes on a softer, more introspective tone. He conveys the character’s vulnerability and uncertainty, particularly in the early stages of his return to the Tower. Crow is haunted by the actions of his past life, even though he has no memory of them, and O’Neill captures this internal conflict with subtle emotional nuances. His performance makes Crow’s journey toward redemption feel genuine and heartfelt.
One of the standout moments in O’Neill’s portrayal is Crow’s relationship with the Guardian. O’Neill expertly conveys the character’s gratitude and admiration for the player, who treats him with kindness despite his past as Uldren Sov. There’s a sense of hope in O’Neill’s performance, as Crow slowly begins to believe that he can be more than the villain he once was.
Impact on the Game
Brandon O’Neill’s performance as the Crow adds a rich emotional layer to Destiny 2’s ongoing narrative. His portrayal of a character seeking redemption resonates with players, especially those who were deeply affected by the events of Forsaken. O’Neill’s ability to convey both vulnerability and strength in Crow makes the character’s arc one of the most compelling in the game. His performance ensures that Crow’s journey feels personal and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the Destiny 2 community.
Conclusion: The Power of Voice Acting in Destiny 2
The voice actors behind Destiny 2 bring the game’s rich world to life, transforming characters from mere plot devices into fully realized individuals with distinct personalities, emotions, and motivations. From Nathan Fillion and Nolan North’s humor and charisma, to Lennie James’ commanding presence, and Brandon O’Neill’s emotionally charged performance as Crow, each actor adds depth and complexity to their roles.
The voice acting in Destiny 2 is more than just a narrative tool—it’s a vital component that elevates the game’s storytelling, making players feel connected to the characters and the world they inhabit. The performances of these talented voice actors have helped make Destiny 2 a truly immersive experience, where the fate of the universe is shaped not only by the actions of the players but by the voices that guide, challenge, and inspire them along the way.