Unusual celebrity cameos in gaming history

Gone are the days of the lonesome pre-pubescent nerdy teen spending their free time battling zombies and completing secret missions with only the latest games console for company; gaming as an industry has grown hugely and it was not going be long until the gaming world bewitches all of Hollywood.
 
From Robin Williams naming his daughter after the famous warrior princess Zelda to rappers taking their consoles on tour, the celebrity, like many keen gamers, dreams of creating or becoming a character in one of their favourite games. Whether it is free games or those ‘must haves' found in your favourite stores, there are lots of surprise celebrity cameos you might not be aware of; even a lot of free online games have snippets from some big names.

Here are the top 5 most unusual celebrity cameos in gaming history:

1. PHIL COLLINS IN GRAND THEFT AUTO: VICE CITY STORIES

The words ‘Phil Collins' and ‘Grand Theft Auto (GTA)' are two words you probably didn't expect to hear in the same sentence, especially with regards to a cameo appearance but the adrenalin pumping, law breaking, no rules game, GTA, features none other than Genesis' silky voiced front man. Phil Collins performs in a concert in the game and bad ass players can beat, rob and cause general mayhem in a bid to complete their mission and win a $6,000 ticket to see the main man in action. Not the only GTA celebrity appearance but definitely the most bizarre.

2. STEPHEN FRY IN LITTLE BIG PLANET

Ok, so this isn't a hard-hitting game about crime and fast-paced action but the soft, intellectual and articulate voice of British legend Stephen Fry goes hand in hand with this child-friendly game. Teamed with level creation and sweet Sackboys, this gaming partnership works and Fry's commentary is superb.

3. STEVE CARELL AND STEPHEN COLBERT IN OUTLAW SPORTS

Comedy and gaming unite in this two-part sport series which brings laughter to the world of Outlaw Tennis and Outlaw Volleyball. Again, these games aren't groundbreaking in their design or gaming potential but hearing quirky one-liners whilst you serve or make game, set and match will keep you chuckling in your gaming chair. Although clearly scripted, the decision to use two top American comedians as commentators was an excellent one and you will be left in stitches if you play, you have been warned!

4. PATRICK STEWART IN OBLIVION

Like Russell Crowe in Gladiator and Angelina Jolie in Tomb Raider, Stewart is made to be in Oblivion. He cameos as the voice of Emperor Uriel Septim and does a good job, using his distinctive voice to guide you through your game. So much so that when the creators of Oblivion decided to add in the part where Stewart's character dies you almost shed a tear. A short lived but utterly brilliant cameo!

5. KRISTEN BELL IN ASSASSIN'S CREED I & II

Better known for her rise to fame in TV series Veronica Mars and hilarious flick Forgetting Sarah Marshall with co-stars Russell Brand and Jason Segel, many gamers may not realise Bell appears in both Creed I and II. Kristen does the voice for Lucy Stillman and is the most downplayed, convincing and longest-serving voice artist on our list. The character Bell plays even has a likeness to the Hollywood actress but still leaves many players missing the clues that make her recognisable!

25 August 2011

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