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 delves into the ongoing dispute concerning 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 Announcement
On July 20th, the SAG-AFTRA National Board unanimously empowered 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 cease work on projects covered by this contract. The central issue is securing crucial AI protections for video game performers.
National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland stated the union's unwavering resolve, highlighting the overwhelming 98%+ member vote authorizing the strike if employers fail to negotiate a fair deal, especially regarding AI. He emphasized the importance of protecting the performers whose work is vital to the success of popular video games. The deadline for a resolution is fast approaching.
Key Issues and Industry Impact
The potential strike stems from the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and performance capture. Currently, no safeguards exist to protect actors from AI replication of their likenesses. Actors demand fair compensation for AI usage, and clear guidelines on how their work can be utilized.
Beyond AI concerns, SAG-AFTRA seeks wage increases to match inflation (11% retroactive pay and 4% increases for 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 could disrupt video game production, although the extent of the impact is unclear. Unlike film and television, video game development is a lengthy process. While a strike may slow down certain stages, the overall effect on game release dates remains uncertain.
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 tweeting his opposition to game companies obtaining generative AI voice training rights from recording sessions. Other companies haven't yet issued statements.
Negotiation History and Context
The conflict began in September 2023, when SAG-AFTRA sought member authorization for a strike before contract negotiations. The vote overwhelmingly favored a strike (98.32%). Negotiations have stalled, despite extending the previous contract (expired November 2022).
The current situation is reminiscent of the 2016 strike against 11 major studios, which lasted 340 days and ended with a compromise that left many union members dissatisfied.
In January 2024, SAG-AFTRA faced criticism over a deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, which allowed members to license their voices to AI. This agreement heightened internal tensions regarding AI's role in performance capture.
SAG-AFTRA's strike authorization represents a critical juncture in the fight for fair labor practices in the gaming industry. The outcome will significantly impact the future of AI in performance capture and the 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.
