The gaming industry faces potential disruption as SAG-AFTRA has authorized a strike against major video game companies. This article explores the ongoing fight for fair labor practices and ethical AI usage.

SAG-AFTRA Authorizes Strike Against Video Game Companies

SAG-AFTRA's Press Release

On July 20th, the SAG-AFTRA National Board unanimously authorized its National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator to call a strike, if necessary, against companies bound by the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA). This means all SAG-AFTRA members could cease work on projects under this contract. The central issue? Securing crucial AI protections for video game performers.

National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland stated, "Our resolve is unwavering…Our membership voted overwhelmingly (over 98%) to authorize a strike…We are steadfast in our commitment to our membership…Time is running out for the companies to make a deal."

Key Issues and Industry Impact

The potential strike stems from concerns about the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and performance capture. Currently, no protections exist to prevent AI replication of actors' likenesses without compensation or clear guidelines. SAG-AFTRA members seek fair compensation for AI usage of their performances.

Beyond AI, the union is also pursuing wage increases (11% retroactive and 4% increases in subsequent years) to match inflation, 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 disrupt video game production, although the extent is uncertain. Unlike film and TV, video game development spans years. While a strike might slow development, significant release delays are 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., and WB Games Inc.

Epic Games publicly supports SAG-AFTRA's position, with CEO Tim Sweeney tweeting support against granting AI training rights from voice recording sessions. Other companies haven't yet issued statements.

Negotiation History

This conflict began in September 2023, with a near-unanimous (98.32%) member vote authorizing a strike ahead of contract negotiations. Negotiations have stalled since then, despite extending the previous contract (expired November 2022).

This builds upon a 2016 strike lasting 340 days, focusing on similar issues. While a compromise was reached, dissatisfaction remained.

A January 2024 deal with Replica Studios, allowing voice licensing to AI, drew criticism, increasing tensions within the union.

This strike authorization marks a crucial point in the fight for fair labor practices in gaming. The outcome will significantly impact AI usage in performance capture and the treatment of video game performers. Protecting individuals and ensuring AI enhances, not replaces, human creativity is paramount. A swift resolution addressing the union's concerns is essential.