Martin Sheen Joins Mass Effect 2 Cast

The Illusive Man, one of the new characters to enter the Mass Effect universe, will be voiced by veteran actor Martin Sheen. A significant role (relative other high-profile actors in video games that we may only see for 15 minutes before they die), the Illusive Man is the brain behind Cerberus–a shadowy organization focused on doing whatever it takes to ensure the continuation and dominance of the human race–and a key character connected to protagonist Commander Shepard in ME2.

Announced today by EA, ME2 is looking to have a truly all star cast of actors. One can only imagine the gleeful giggle of ME fans around the world as they learn that some of their favourite actors will be coming to their Xbox 360 or PC in just over a month from now. Joining Mr. Sheen in this battle for the galaxy will be:

Michael “it’s in the frakin’ ship” Hogan: Captain Bailey
Tricia Helfer: EDI (the ship computer)
Adam Baldwin: Kal’Reegar
Yvonne Strahovski: Miranda Lawson
Carrie-Ann Moss: Aria
Michael Dorn: Gatalog Uvenk
Simon Templeman: Han Gerrel
Natalia Cigliuti: Morinth
Shoreh Aghdashloo: Admiral Shala’Raan

[check out the announcement video after the break]

Returning to the game will also be the voices of protagonist Commander Shepard: Jennifer Hale and Mark Meer (who, incidentally, is one of the best improv actors I’ve ever seen on stage). Other returning cast members (confirmed in today’s announcement) include:

Seth Green
Keith David
Liz Sroka

It’s likely, of course, we’ll be seeing most everyone from the first game back in the second. At least, most everyone who isn’t dead (character-wise, I mean).

A full cast of great actors in significant roles is a good sign for the game industry. While big-name actors are certainly part of the marketing plan for games like Mass Effect, they are also becoming legitimate vehicles for the actors. It’s particularly nice to see the actors are  interested in their characters, the story and the game. They appear to be treating their roles in this game as if they were roles in blockbuster movies. Here’s to hoping that translates into the ME2 gamer experience.

Watch the announcement video here and prepare to get excited for January 26, 2010.

[via GameSpot]