The video game industry faces potential upheaval as SAG-AFTRA has authorized a strike against major game developers. This article examines the ongoing dispute over fair labor practices and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in performance capture.
SAG-AFTRA Authorizes Strike Against Video Game Companies
SAG-AFTRA's Announcement
On July 20th, the SAG-AFTRA 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), halting work by all SAG-AFTRA members on affected projects. The central issue is securing vital AI protections for video game performers.
National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland stated, "Our members overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike (over 98% yes) unless employers offer a fair deal addressing key concerns, particularly AI protections. Our members' exceptional work is crucial to the success of popular video games. The companies need to act swiftly to reach an agreement."
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 protect actors from AI replication of their likenesses and performances. SAG-AFTRA members seek fair compensation for AI usage and clear guidelines on how their work can be utilized.
Beyond AI, the union is seeking wage increases to match inflation (11% retroactive increase and 4% increases in subsequent years), improved on-set safety measures (including mandatory 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 lengthy development cycles of video games, the effects might be felt gradually, rather than causing widespread release delays.
Companies Involved and Their Positions
The potential strike involves 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 acquire AI training rights from voice recording sessions. Other companies haven't yet issued public statements.
Negotiation History
The conflict began in September 2023 when SAG-AFTRA sought member authorization for a strike before contract negotiations. The overwhelming support (98.32%) reflects the urgency of the situation. Negotiations have stalled, despite extending the previous contract (expired November 2022).
This dispute builds upon a 2016 strike lasting 340 days, focusing on pay, safety, and residuals. While a compromise was reached, many union members felt the agreement fell short.
In January 2024, SAG-AFTRA faced criticism for a deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, which some viewed as a concession to AI usage. This further intensified tensions within the union.
The authorized strike highlights the fight for fair labor practices in the gaming industry. The resolution will significantly influence the future use of AI in performance capture and the treatment of video game performers. Protecting human creativity in the face of rapid AI development is crucial, making a fair and equitable resolution paramount.
