Mortal Kombat Audio Legend Dan Forden Retires from NetherRealm Studios After 37 Years

Mortal Kombat Audio Legend Dan Forden Retires from NetherRealm Studios After 37 Years Dan Forden, the celebrated composer and sound designer who helped define the atmosphere and legacy of Mortal Kombat, has officially retired from his post as audio director at NetherRealm Studios.

After an impressive 37-year tenure in the gaming industry, Forden's departure marks the end of an era for one of the most iconic franchises in the fighting game genre. Best known to millions as the 'Toasty Guy' — a reference to his surprise appearances and signature catchphrase in Mortal Kombat games — Forden’s influence goes far beyond memorable Easter Eggs.

Since joining the original Mortal Kombat team at Midway Games in the early 1990s, Forden has shaped the soundscape of the series.

His innovative approach covered everything from the visceral impact sound effects to the unforgettable announcer voice and the haunting musical themes that have become synonymous with the franchise, including on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch. Reflecting on Forden’s retirement and legacy, Mortal Kombat co-creator Ed Boon took to social media to highlight Forden’s enduring contributions.

In his tribute, Boon emphasized that the unique tone, atmosphere, and outrageous presentation of the first Mortal Kombat owed much to Forden's creative vision.

Boon recalled the explosive sound of the uppercut, the wicked laughter of the announcer, and the instantly recognizable "DUN DUN DUN" before a fatality — all hallmarks of Forden’s hand.

Boon acknowledged, “A significant part of Mortal Kombat’s identity was its audio.

Dan’s work brought the game’s world to life and set a benchmark for video game sound design that still resonates today.” Forden himself offered a heartfelt message as he announced his departure on Instagram.

He expressed pride in the body of work produced alongside the talented teams at NetherRealm Studios, noting, "We made a lot of fun stuff over the years.

I'm really proud of what we accomplished as well as how much fun we had making that stuff.

There are so many smart, talented people there — look for more great things to emerge over the next several years." Forden’s impact is perhaps best encapsulated by the beloved "Toasty" Easter Egg, which originated as an inside joke between Forden and Boon during arcade sessions at Midway.

His face and high-pitched catchphrase would randomly appear on-screen following well-timed uppercuts, eventually becoming a recurring motif not only in Mortal Kombat but throughout gaming culture.

The Easter Egg's popularity even prompted similar quirks—like “Crispy” and “Frosty”—to appear in subsequent Mortal Kombat entries and beyond. Although Forden’s next steps remain private, his legacy at NetherRealm Studios will persist — even humorously, through a bathroom mirror homage within the studio's halls.

In his parting words, Forden acknowledged the vital role fans have played throughout his career: “I wouldn’t have lasted 37 years in the industry if fans weren’t out there playing the games we made.

Thanks to all of you for supporting what we’ve done.

Live long and...

Toasty!” Dan Forden’s retirement stands as a milestone in video game history, cementing his place as a pioneer in interactive audio and a pillar of the Mortal Kombat legacy across generations and platforms, including the Nintendo Switch.

As NetherRealm Studios looks to the future, Forden’s innovative spirit and trademark sounds will continue to echo throughout the gaming industry.

Mortal Kombat NetherRealm Studios Ed Boon Dan Forden NetherRealm Legend Midway Games Nintendo Switch