SAG-AFTRA Prepares for Potential Voice Acting Strike

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 examines 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 to call a strike if necessary. This action targets all services under the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA), meaning all SAG-AFTRA members could cease work on affected projects. The central issue is securing strong AI protections for video game performers.

National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland stated the union's position unequivocally: "Our members voted overwhelmingly (over 98%) to authorize a strike if employers don't negotiate a fair deal, especially regarding AI. Our members' performances are crucial to the success of these games, and we're committed to protecting them. The companies need to act 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 against AI replication of actors' likenesses and voices. Actors demand fair compensation for AI usage, and clear guidelines on 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 mandatory rest periods and on-site medics for hazardous work), vocal stress protections, and the elimination of self-taped stunt auditions.

A strike could significantly impact video game development, although the full extent is uncertain. Unlike film and television, game development is a lengthy process. While a strike might delay specific phases, the overall effect on release dates is unclear.

Companies Involved and Their Responses

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 CEO Tim Sweeney has voiced support for SAG-AFTRA's position on AI usage, tweeting against the use of recorded dialogue for AI training. Other companies have yet to publicly comment.

Negotiation History and Background

The current conflict began in September 2023, when SAG-AFTRA members overwhelmingly voted (98.32%) to authorize a strike. Negotiations since then have been unproductive, despite an extension of the previous contract (expired November 2022).

This dispute follows a 2016 strike that lasted 340 days. While that strike resulted in a compromise, many union members felt the agreement fell short.

In January 2024, SAG-AFTRA's deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, sparked controversy and internal divisions within the union. This deal, allowing members to license their voices to AI, fueled existing tensions.

The strike authorization highlights the ongoing fight for fair labor standards 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 development of AI necessitates the protection of individual rights, ensuring AI enhances, not replaces, human creativity. A swift resolution is crucial to address the union's concerns.