So that’s why Charles Martinet is the narrator for Runner 2

It's pretty cool that renowned Mario voice actor Charles Martinet was chosen by Gaijin Games to narrate Bit.Trip Presents Runner 2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien. It didn't make a whole lot of sense at first, but it was cool nonetheless. Thanks to an explanation from the developer, though, it now makes complete sense, and it's quite simple: Gaijin just really likes Martinet.

"We wanted to get Charles because obviously he's recognizable," said the co-founder of Gaijin Alex Neuse in a statement to Joystiq. "We like him, he's funny, and silly, and great, and awesome. We wanted to have a whimsical character voice that's reminiscent of old cartoons."

The fact that Bit.Trip has always been prominent on Nintendo platforms also influenced this decision. "Our games have been on Nintendo platforms and it kind of felt like … it's a home, the Nintendo stuff, and he's part of that home, even though he was living in another room until now," explained Neuse.

Of course, Martinet won't be making a charmingly silly high-pitched voice as he narrates Runner 2. Instead, he's playing himself, which is quite interesting. As a matter of fact, he starts off by saying, "I'm Charles Martinet, and now it's time for Bit.Trip Presents Runner 2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien."

Martinet won't just be narrating the game at the beginning. He'll also be doing voice work for cutscenes and providing his talent for fake in-game ads. Seriously, fake commercials are probably some of the best commercials.

[Joystiq]

Want to talk about indie games, Kirby, or cheap pizza? Follow me on Twitter @dr_davidsanchez.