The video game industry faces potential upheaval as SAG-AFTRA, the union representing voice actors and performance artists, has authorized a strike against major game developers. This action highlights a critical conflict over fair labor practices and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in performance capture.
SAG-AFTRA Authorizes Strike: A Fight for AI Protections
SAG-AFTRA's Announcement
On July 20th, SAG-AFTRA's National Board unanimously empowered its National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator to call a strike if necessary. This strike would encompass all services under the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA), halting work on all projects covered by this contract. The central issue is the lack of adequate AI protections for video game performers.
National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland underscored the union's unwavering resolve, emphasizing the overwhelming (98%+ yes) member vote authorizing a strike unless employers present a fair deal, particularly addressing AI concerns. He highlighted the vital role of voice actors in the success of video games and the urgency for a resolution.
Key Issues and Industry Impact
The potential strike stems from the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and performance capture. Currently, no safeguards prevent AI replication of actors' likenesses without compensation or clear usage guidelines. SAG-AFTRA members demand fair payment for their performances and transparent regulations regarding AI usage of their work.
Beyond AI, the union seeks wage increases to match inflation (11% retroactively and 4% annual increases), improved on-set safety measures (including mandated rest periods and on-site medical personnel), vocal stress protections, and the elimination of stunt requirements in self-taped auditions.
A strike's impact on video game development is uncertain, given the lengthy production timelines. While it could slow development, the extent of delays in game releases remains unclear. This contrasts with the immediate impact strikes have on film and television production.
Companies Involved and Their Responses
The potential strike targets ten major companies:
⚫︎ Activision Productions Inc. ⚫︎ Blindlight LLC ⚫︎ Disney Character Voices Inc. ⚫︎ Electronic Arts Productions Inc. ⚫︎ Epic Games, Inc. ⚫︎ Formosa Interactive LLC ⚫︎ Insomniac Games Inc. ⚫︎ Take-Two Productions Inc. ⚫︎ VoiceWorks Productions Inc. ⚫︎ WB Games Inc.
Epic Games has publicly supported SAG-AFTRA's position, with CEO Tim Sweeney stating that game companies shouldn't receive AI training rights from voice recording sessions. Other companies haven't yet issued public statements.
Negotiation History and Context
The conflict began in September 2023 with a near-unanimous (98.32%) member vote authorizing a strike before contract negotiations. Negotiations have stalled despite an extension of the previous contract (expired November 2022).
This current dispute follows a 2016 strike lasting 340 days, which ended with a compromise deemed unsatisfactory by many union members. A January 2024 deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, further fueled internal tensions and criticism within SAG-AFTRA.
SAG-AFTRA's strike authorization signifies a crucial moment in the fight for fair labor practices in the gaming industry. The outcome will significantly impact the future of AI in performance capture and the treatment of video game performers. Protecting human creativity and ensuring AI enhances, not replaces, human talent is paramount in this rapidly evolving technological landscape. A swift and equitable resolution is essential.
