SAG-AFTRA Video Game Voice Actors Strike Over AI Protections and Fair Compensation
July 27, 2024The debut of Generative AI technology has brought about the Video Game Voice Actors strike for the first time since 2017.
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has officially announced a strike involving over 2,500 video game performers, including voice actors and motion capture artists. The strike, which began on July 26, 2024, comes after nearly two years of negotiations between the union and major video game companies like Activision, Electronic Arts, Insomniac Games, and others. The central issue in these negotiations has been the use and regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) within the industry.
Table of Contents
Why The Video Game Voice Actors Strike
AI Protections: The performers are particularly concerned about the unrestricted use of AI to replicate their voices and likenesses without their consent. The union is pushing for contractual protections to prevent companies from using AI to generate performances or likenesses that could potentially replace live performers. This issue mirrors similar concerns seen in other entertainment sectors, such as film and television, where AI’s role in content creation has become a contentious topic.
Wage Increases and Working Conditions: In addition to AI protections, SAG-AFTRA is advocating for wage increases to address inflation and ensure fair compensation for the performers’ work. They are also seeking improved safety measures, including better working conditions for stunts and motion capture work. The union’s members argue that as key contributors to some of the world’s most popular video games, they deserve fair treatment and compensation.
The Full Statement
We are disappointed the union has chosen to walk away when we are so close to a deal, and we remain prepared to resume negotiations. We have already found common ground on 24 out of 25 proposals, including historic wage increases and additional safety provisions. Our offer is directly responsive to SAG-AFTRA’s concerns and extends meaningful AI protections that include requiring consent and fair compensation to all performers working under the IMA. These terms are among the strongest in the entertainment industry.
Industry Response and Negotiations
The video game companies involved have expressed disappointment over the strike, noting that negotiations were close to a resolution. Audrey Cooling, a spokesperson for the companies, mentioned that 24 out of 25 proposals had been agreed upon, including substantial wage increases and some AI protections. However, the sticking point remains the extent and nature of these protections, especially concerning motion capture performers, who are not covered as comprehensively under the proposed terms.
Happy to hear this. Can't wait to see your proposal for offering strong A.I. protections for on- and off-camera performers. And bring your friends too! #LevelUpTheContract https://t.co/6xNjFLfWDF
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) July 22, 2024
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
This strike highlights a significant moment in the video game industry, as it brings attention to the evolving role of AI and the need for robust protections for creative professionals. The outcome of these negotiations could set a precedent for how AI is regulated in the entertainment industry, influencing future contracts and labour agreements.
As the strike progresses, the union’s resolve remains firm. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s national executive director, emphasized the union’s commitment to securing fair terms for its members, stating that the performers are the heart and soul of the gaming content they help create. The industry and union will need to find common ground to avoid long-term disruptions and ensure the continued production of video game content.
This ongoing situation underscores the importance of addressing technological advancements in employment contracts, ensuring that all stakeholders are protected in a rapidly changing digital landscape. As the strike continues, it remains to be seen how the industry will respond and what the long-term effects will be on both the labour market and the gaming experience.
