Toasty from Mortal Kombat Says Goodbye

by Marcus Thompson October 16, 2025

written by Marcus Thompson October 16, 2025

Key Takeaways

Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark

Dan Forden, a key member of the original Mortal Kombat development team and Audio Director at NetherRealm Studios for the past 15 years, retired on October 1st after a 37-year career.
Forden significantly contributed to the success of the Mortal Kombat series, including creating the iconic Toasty! sound bite in the first game.
Co-creator Ed Boon praised Forden for his sound work and thanked him for his contributions to NetherRealm Studios and the Mortal Kombat franchise.
The retirement of Dan Forden marks the end of an era for a legend of the Mortal Kombat franchise, with NetherRealm Studios affirming its commitment to developing more games and preserving the series legacy.

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Retirement of Mortal Kombat Legend Dan Forden Signals an Era’s End at NetherRealm Studios

After a distinguished 37-year career, Dan Forden, one-fourth of the original Mortal Kombat development team, retired on October 1st. Forden significantly impacted pinball, video games, NetherRealm, and especially the Mortal Kombat series. He contributed greatly to the first game’s success, including the iconic “Toasty!” sound bite. Joining the Mortal Kombat development team in 1992 at the age of 62, Forden remained involved with every main game since. For the past 15 years, he served as Audio Director at NetherRealm Studios. On Instagram, Forden thanked everyone, concluding his message with the classic sign-off, “Live long and… Toasty!” The studio displays tributes to Forden, such as his Mortal Kombat 3 face on a mirror sticker. Co-creator Ed Boon praised Forden for his sound work and expressed gratitude for all his contributions. NetherRealm Studios has affirmed its commitment to developing more games and preserving the Mortal Kombat legacy. Forden’s retirement marks the end of an era for a legend of the franchise.