Dungeon Master’s Block 324: Character Voices (feat. Maxwell Zener)
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Feb 12, 2026 Maxwell Zener, a professionally trained actor and audiobook narrator, shares practical, learnable techniques for creating memorable character voices. He breaks voices into speech, movement, and thought. Short exercises, props, animal archetypes, and accent placement tricks spark fast NPCs. Emphasis on repeatable hooks, vocal safety, and imagination over perfection.
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Squish The Kobold Was An Accidental Hit
- Anecdote: Maxwell improvised a kobold voice named Squish during a four‑shot and it became a player favorite.
- He kept the voice low‑strain so he could repeat it across sessions without losing his voice.
Don't Hurt Your Voice For A Gimmick
- Avoid any vocal choices that cause pain or strain.
- Maxwell: if a voice will be used for hours, learn safe techniques or pick an easier pitch to protect your voice.
Spend Time Only If It Increases Your Fun
- Do whatever increases your fun and fits your prep time.
- Maxwell: spend hours crafting NPCs if you enjoy it; otherwise use on‑the‑fly hooks and players won't mind.
