Voice Programs in (MMO)RPGs

GameZone has whipped up a brief editorial that examines the viability of voice programs in multiplayer role-playing games.
So, the next question would become, is role play something that can be accomplished using voice. Hmm, tough call, but generally speaking no. Why? Much of it depends on the game itself. If playing a fantasy, hearing someone with a southern drawl trying to use what is oft associated with medieval vocal mannerisms does not always work. Or a male playing a female avatar (and vice versa), the element of belief is not achieved. Part of role play relies on falling into a pseudo reality where players suspend belief through the artificial stimuli of the game and are willing to immerse themselves into the cyber reality.

When a voice is at odds with the surroundings or the intended flavor, you are jerked back to reality. Hats off to those who can ignore the anomaly or mismatches.