# **Unknown 9: Awakening – An In-Depth Look at Bandai Namco and Reflector Entertainment’s Upcoming Action-Adventure Title**

The gaming landscape is poised to become significantly more enigmatic and thrilling with the imminent launch of *Unknown 9: Awakening*. Created by Reflector Entertainment, a studio based in Canada, and published by Bandai Namco, this action-adventure title promises to immerse players in a world brimming with suspense, supernatural abilities, and a deeply culturally influenced storyline. With a launch date slated for October 18th, *Unknown 9: Awakening* is already stirring excitement, particularly with Anya Chalotra from *The Witcher* cast headlining as the lead character, Haroona.

In an exclusive conversation with CGMagazine, Chalotra provided insights into her character, the game’s narrative, and her experiences with motion capture technology. Let’s delve into what sets *Unknown 9: Awakening* apart as one of the most awaited games of the year.

## **The Narrative of Haroona and The Fold**

Central to *Unknown 9: Awakening* is Haroona, a character portrayed by Anya Chalotra. Haroona is a Quaestor, someone endowed with the power to interact with an enigmatic realm referred to as “The Fold.” This alternative dimension brims with secrets and abilities that various factions within the game seek to commandeer.

Haroona’s adventure is intensely personal. She embarks on a mission to seek vengeance for her mentor, Reika, who was murdered by an antagonist named Vincent. Throughout her journey, she endeavors to unveil the enigmas surrounding the “Unknown 9,” a critical element of the game’s narrative. Chalotra characterizes Haroona as forceful, resilient, and fiercely autonomous. Her supernatural powers extend beyond mere combat functions; they are deeply intertwined with her decisions and the larger purpose she fulfills.

“Haroona consistently contemplates matters larger than herself,” Chalotra articulates. “Her extraordinary supernatural abilities are only as impactful as the choices she makes.”

## **Anya Chalotra’s Bond with Haroona**

One of the most captivating facets of Chalotra’s interpretation of Haroona is the personal connection she infuses into the character. As a woman of Indian heritage, Chalotra was inspired by the chance to integrate her cultural background into the role. Haroona shares this Indian descent, and Chalotra hopes that this link to her own culture provides authenticity and richness to the character.

“There’s an authentic and grounded essence to her that I know I feel because of my family,” Chalotra remarks. “I desire… I hope that this is what offers her grounding.”

This portrayal of Indian culture within a prominent video game represents a vital step toward enhanced diversity in the gaming industry. Chalotra’s passion for embodying this aspect of her identity is apparent, and it is evident that Haroona’s cultural heritage will significantly influence her character and the surrounding world.

## **The Motion Capture Journey**

For Chalotra, *Unknown 9: Awakening* also signifies her inaugural experience in the realm of motion capture, a process she found both demanding and exhilarating. Unlike conventional acting, motion capture necessitates that performers entirely inhabit their characters within a space that lacks physical sets or props. Everything, from the surroundings to the objects characters interact with, exists solely in the imagination, placing even greater emphasis on the actor’s physical performance.

“I relish working with my body,” Chalotra expresses. “The environment necessitates you to wholly embody a person since there’s nothing to rely on in the space—just you and your fellow actors.”

Chalotra also disclosed her long-standing admiration for Andy Serkis, renowned for his motion capture roles in productions such as *The Lord of the Rings* and *Planet of the Apes*. While Haroona is far removed from an ape, Chalotra’s respect for Serkis’ talent in animating characters via motion capture evidently shapes her approach to the role.

## **A Potentially Iconic Character in Gaming?**

Chalotra is already well-versed in embodying formidable women. Her role as Yennefer in Netflix’s *The Witcher* series has made her a beloved figure within the fantasy genre. Now, with Haroona, she is venturing into the gaming arena, bringing a completely new character to life.

When questioned about the experience of being a role model in both gaming and fantasy, Chalotra attributes her success to the strong writing behind the characters she embodies. “Everyone deserves the opportunity for their full selves to be explored,” she remarks. “I’m simply grateful that I have the time in the roles I play for people to feel they are powerful and connected.”

Chalotra aspires for Haroona to establish herself as an iconic character in her own right, much