The video game industry faces potential upheaval as SAG-AFTRA, the union representing voice actors, has authorized a strike against major game developers. This article explores the conflict over fair wages, working conditions, 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 authorized a strike against companies bound by the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA). This means all SAG-AFTRA members could cease work on affected projects if negotiations fail. The central issue is the lack of AI protections for voice actors.

National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland emphasized the union's strong stance, highlighting the overwhelming 98%+ member vote authorizing a strike unless a fair deal, particularly addressing AI concerns, is reached. The union champions the vital contributions of its members to the success of video games.

Key Issues and Potential Industry Impact

The dispute centers on the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and performance capture. Currently, no safeguards exist to prevent the unauthorized replication of actors' voices and likenesses. SAG-AFTRA seeks compensation and clear guidelines for AI usage, ensuring actors are fairly compensated for their work, even when AI is involved.

Beyond AI, the union is pushing for wage increases to combat 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 the elimination of stunt work in self-taped auditions).

A strike's impact on game development is uncertain. Unlike film and television, video game production spans years. While a strike could slow down development, the extent of any delays in game releases remains to be seen.

Companies Involved and Their Positions

The potential strike affects 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, opposing the use of voice recordings for AI training without actor consent. Other companies have yet to comment.

Negotiation History and Context

The conflict began in September 2023, when SAG-AFTRA members overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike. Negotiations have stalled, even after extending the previous contract (expired November 2022).

This builds on a 2016 strike lasting 340 days, which, while resulting in a compromise, left many members dissatisfied. Further fueling tensions, a January 2024 deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, sparked criticism, highlighting internal divisions over AI's role in performance capture.

SAG-AFTRA's strike authorization is a crucial moment in the fight for fair labor practices in gaming. The outcome will significantly impact AI's use in performance capture and the overall treatment of video game performers. The rapid advancement of AI underscores the urgent need for a resolution that balances technological progress with the rights and well-being of creative professionals.