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 article explores the ongoing dispute over fair labor practices and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in the industry.
SAG-AFTRA Authorizes Strike Against Video Game Companies
SAG-AFTRA's Announcement
On July 20th, the SAG-AFTRA National Board unanimously voted to empower its National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator to call a strike if necessary. This action targets all services under the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA), meaning all SAG-AFTRA members could cease work on affected projects. The central issue is securing crucial AI protections for video game performers.
National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland stressed the union's unwavering resolve, stating that the over 98% "yes" vote to authorize a strike underscores the need for a fair deal, particularly concerning AI. He highlighted the importance of protecting the performers whose work is essential to the success of popular video games. The union is pressing for a timely resolution.
Key Issues and Industry Impact
The potential strike stems from concerns about the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and performance capture. Currently, there are no safeguards protecting actors from AI replication of their likenesses. SAG-AFTRA advocates for fair compensation and clear guidelines regarding the use of AI-generated performances, ensuring actors are paid for their work, not just the AI's use of their likeness.
Beyond AI, the union is seeking wage increases to match inflation (11% retroactively and 4% increases in subsequent years), 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 full extent is uncertain. Unlike film and television, video game development is a lengthy process. While a strike might slow development, the effect on release dates remains unclear.
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 have unrestricted rights to use voice recordings for AI training. Other companies haven't yet released 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%) reflects strong feelings about the issues. Negotiations have stalled despite extending the previous contract, which expired in November 2022.
This dispute follows a 2016 strike lasting 340 days, which resulted in a compromise deemed unsatisfactory by many union members. A January 2024 deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, further fueled tensions within the union, creating controversy over AI's role in performance capture.
SAG-AFTRA's strike authorization highlights the ongoing fight for fair labor practices in the gaming industry. The outcome will significantly impact AI's use in performance capture and the treatment of video game performers. The rapid advancement of AI necessitates strong protections for individuals, ensuring AI enhances, not replaces, human creativity. A swift and fair resolution is crucial.
