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 crucial battle over fair labor practices and responsible AI implementation.
SAG-AFTRA Authorizes Strike: A Fight for Fair Compensation and AI Protections
SAG-AFTRA's Declaration
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 affected projects. The central issue is securing robust AI protections for performers.
National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland underscored the union's unwavering stance, stating the overwhelming support (over 98%) for strike authorization if employers fail to address key demands, particularly concerning AI. He emphasized the union's commitment to its members whose talent is vital to the success of popular video games. The deadline for a resolution is fast approaching.
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 advocate for fair payment for their performances and strict regulations governing 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, on-site medics for hazardous work, vocal stress protections, and eliminating stunt requirements in self-taped auditions).
A strike could significantly impact video game production, although the extent remains unclear. Unlike film and television, video game development is a lengthy process. While a strike might delay certain development phases, the overall impact on game release dates is uncertain.
Companies Involved and Their Positions
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 2 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 obtain generative AI training rights from voice recording sessions. Other companies haven't yet issued public statements.
Negotiation History and Context
This conflict began in September 2023 when SAG-AFTRA sought member authorization for a strike before contract negotiations. The overwhelming support (98.32%) for strike authorization reflects the depth of concern. Negotiations have stalled since the previous contract expired in November 2022.
The current situation is reminiscent of the 2016 strike, which lasted 340 days and ended with a compromise that left many union members unsatisfied. A January 2024 deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, further fueled tensions within the union regarding AI's role in performance capture.
SAG-AFTRA's strike authorization represents a critical juncture in the fight for fair labor practices in the gaming industry. The outcome will significantly influence the future of AI in performance capture and the treatment of video game performers. Protecting human creativity and ensuring AI serves as a tool, not a replacement, is paramount in this rapidly evolving technological landscape. A swift and equitable resolution is crucial.
