Metroid Dread's Chozo Language: Behind the Scenes with Voice Director Stephen Hughes

Metroid Dread, released on October 8, 2021, for the Nintendo Switch, marked a triumphant return for the mainline Metroid series after nearly two decades.

Developed by MercurySteam in collaboration with Nintendo, the game enthralled fans with its fast-paced gameplay, atmospheric storytelling, and detailed world-building.

One particular standout was the introduction of the Chozo language—a fictional tongue spoken by the enigmatic Chozo race, most notably embodied by the character Quiet Robe. In a recent Kiwi Talkz podcast episode, Stephen Hughes, assistant voice director for Metroid Dread and the performer behind Quiet Robe, discussed the intricate process involved in bringing the Chozo language to life.

MercurySteam, the Spanish development studio responsible for Metroid Dread, sought to create an authentically alien yet believable linguistic structure for the game’s cutscenes.

According to Hughes, "The developers aimed for the language to retain a natural flow during audio sessions, so its syntax closely mirrors English word order.

This approach made it easier to identify word placement, helping capture subtle emotional nuances even if the actual words were entirely invented." Hughes highlighted the challenge of acting in a constructed language, noting that, as with learning any foreign language, the toughest aspect can be adjusting to different sentence structures.

By keeping the Chozo syntax in line with English, the developers ensured performances retained their complexity without adding unnecessary barriers for the cast or audience.

This decision accentuates the narrative’s emotional undertones while maintaining immersion for both seasoned Metroid fans and newcomers alike. Metroid Dread's attention to voice acting and storytelling has contributed to its significant commercial and critical success.

The title quickly became the fastest-selling game in the Metroid franchise, surpassing 3 million units worldwide as of early 2023.

Its successful launch on the Nintendo Switch platform further solidified MercurySteam’s reputation for innovative and high-quality game development.

The game has also become a staple on the Nintendo eShop, frequently featured in sales promotions and Nintendo Direct presentations. As the Metroid franchise continues to evolve, the creative efforts behind Metroid Dread’s Chozo language exemplify the dedication and artistry at play in game development.

The insights from Stephen Hughes shed light on the nuanced work that helps bring Nintendo’s beloved universes to life, setting a new benchmark for linguistic world-building in video games.

Metroid Metroid Dread Stephen Hughes MercurySteam