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: A Fight for AI Protections

SAG-AFTRA's Official Announcement

On July 20th, SAG-AFTRA's National Board unanimously voted to authorize its National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator to call a strike if necessary. This action targets all services under the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA), potentially halting work on numerous video game projects. The central issue is securing robust AI protections for performers.

National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland stated the union's unwavering resolve, emphasizing the overwhelming 98%+ member support for strike authorization if a satisfactory agreement, particularly regarding AI usage, isn't reached. 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 concerns over the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and performance capture. Currently, no safeguards exist to prevent AI replication of actors' likenesses without compensation or clear guidelines on usage. SAG-AFTRA members demand fair payment for their performances and transparent regulations concerning AI usage of their work.

Beyond AI, SAG-AFTRA seeks substantial wage increases to counter inflation (11% retroactive increase 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's impact on video game development is uncertain, unlike the immediate effects seen in film and television. Given the multi-year development cycles of most games, the consequences might range from slowed production to potential, but uncertain, release delays.

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.

While Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney publicly supported SAG-AFTRA's stance against granting game companies generative AI voice training rights, other companies have yet to issue statements.

Negotiation History and Context

The current conflict began in September 2023 with a near-unanimous (98.32%) member vote authorizing a strike ahead of contract negotiations. Prolonged negotiations since then have failed to yield a new agreement, despite an extension of the previous contract (expired November 2022).

This dispute builds upon a 2016 strike lasting 340 days, which, despite a compromise, left many union members unsatisfied. Further fueling tensions was a January 2024 deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, perceived by some as a compromise of union principles.

This strike authorization represents a critical juncture in the fight for fair labor practices in the gaming industry. The outcome will significantly influence AI usage in performance capture and the overall 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 equitable resolution is crucial.