What Is Pragmata?
Pragmata is a third-person shooter developed by Capcom, set to release on April 17, 2026, for PlayStation 5. The game takes players to the moon, where they follow the story of Hugh, an astronaut, and Diana, a childlike android, as they face a deadly robot threat. Originally scheduled for release in 2022, the game has seen significant delays, increasing anticipation among gamers.
Quick Facts — Pragmata
| Developer | Capcom |
|---|---|
| Platform(s) | PS5 |
| Release Date | April 17, 2026 |
| Genre | Shooter |
David Menkin plays the role of Hugh, who embarks on a mission to investigate a research base on the moon. Alongside him is Diana, who provides both companionship and assistance throughout their perilous journey. The dynamic between Hugh and Diana is central to the game's narrative, offering players a unique relationship to explore.
Emotional Challenges of Secrecy
Menkin's experience working on Pragmata has been marked by emotional challenges, particularly the need to keep the game's details under wraps. He expressed this struggle, stating, "I realized that I had to mourn it again" as he dealt with the isolation of maintaining secrecy. This feeling was compounded by the fact that he couldn't share his excitement with friends and family.
Reflecting on his commitment to the project, Menkin said, "It's just a game. No, it's not. This has been like a year and a half of my life." His dedication to the role is evident, as he navigated not only the technical demands of voice acting but also the emotional weight of his work.
Recording and Character Development
Menkin joined the cast of Pragmata in 2024 and had the opportunity to participate in a table read, which he described as a rare and enjoyable experience in the industry. He noted that he and his fellow actors, including Grace Saif who plays Diana, were able to connect over the game's lore, despite often recording their lines separately.
The separation during recording sessions posed unique challenges for the actors as they built their characters. Menkin explained, "We’re used to it. This is the way this industry works," but he found ways to stay inspired by Saif's performances, ensuring he could deliver his lines effectively.
Menkin's Passion for Space
Menkin's passion for space and science fiction has been a significant influence on his career. He previously portrayed Neil Armstrong in various projects, which deepened his appreciation for the moon and its exploration. The timing of the Artemis 2 mission coinciding with Pragmata's release heightened his excitement, even as he felt constrained by strict embargoes that prevented him from sharing his enthusiasm.
He humorously remarked about the challenge of keeping secrets, saying, "I didn't want anyone from Capcom to be like, ‘Excuse me, is that a picture of the moon or is that a picture of our moon?’" This blend of humor and seriousness highlights the unique pressures faced by voice actors in the gaming industry.
Conclusion
Now that Pragmata is set to launch, Menkin finally feels a sense of freedom. The weight of secrecy has lifted, allowing him to engage openly with fans. As he put it, "My job is so fucking weird," reflecting on the unique nature of his work in gaming.