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, SAG-AFTRA's National Board unanimously authorized 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 would halt work on projects covered by this contract. The central issue is securing strong protections against the unauthorized use of AI in video game performances.
National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland underscored the union's resolute stance: "Our members voted overwhelmingly (over 98%) to authorize a strike if employers fail to negotiate a fair deal, particularly regarding AI protections. We stand firmly with our members whose exceptional work is vital to the success of the world's most popular video games. The time for a resolution is now."
Key Issues and Industry Impact
The potential strike stems from concerns over the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and performance capture. Currently, there are no safeguards preventing the unauthorized replication of actors' voices and likenesses using AI. Actors demand fair compensation for AI usage, and clear guidelines governing how their work can be utilized.
Beyond AI, SAG-AFTRA seeks wage increases to match inflation (11% retroactive and 4% increases in subsequent years), improved on-set safety measures (including mandated rest periods, on-site medics during 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 AI voice training on recorded dialogue. Other companies have yet to release statements.
Negotiation History
This conflict began in September 2023 when SAG-AFTRA sought member authorization for a strike before contract negotiations. The vote overwhelmingly supported a strike (98.32%). Negotiations have stalled since then, despite extending the previous contract (which expired in November 2022).
The current situation echoes a 2016 strike lasting 340 days, which involved similar issues like base pay, safety, and residuals. While that strike ended in a compromise, many members felt the agreement fell short.
In January 2024, SAG-AFTRA faced criticism over a deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider. This agreement, allowing members to license their voices to AI, fueled internal tensions within the union.
SAG-AFTRA's strike authorization marks 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 overall treatment of video game performers. The rapid advancement of AI necessitates robust protections for individuals, ensuring AI enhances human creativity instead of replacing it. A swift and equitable resolution is crucial.
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