Video game actors in SAG-AFTRA are getting ready to strike against big game companies because they want better protections from AI misuse. They’re worried about not getting fair pay and losing control over how their voices, faces, and likenesses are used by AI. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the union’s leader, says they want the same basic protections for video game actors that actors in other fields already have.
The strike is scheduled to start on July 26 and will impact companies listed under the Interactive Media Agreement. This includes major entities such as Activision, Electronic Arts, and WB Games, as well as external production firms that support major studios like Ubisoft and Bethesda.
The union’s decision to strike follows a series of unsuccessful negotiations aimed at addressing their AI-related concerns, highlighting a significant divide between the demands of the actors and the stance of the developers.
In response to the impending strike, video game producers have expressed disappointment, noting their readiness to continue negotiations. They claim to have addressed nearly all of SAG-AFTRA’s proposals, including those related to AI protections and wage increases.
The producers argue that their offer includes some of the strongest AI safeguards in the industry, which they believe should meet the union’s demands for fair treatment.
SAG-AFTRA’s move comes after a nearly unanimous vote by its members in September 2023, signaling strong support for a strike if necessary.
This reflects broader industry trends where unions are increasingly focused on AI-related issues, as seen in other recent strikes. Fran Drescher, SAG-AFTRA’s president, underscored the union’s commitment to negotiating a deal that respects their members’ rights and conditions.
The last significant strike by video game actors occurred in 2016 and lasted over 11 months. While it resulted in some improvements, such as greater transparency and new protections, it fell short of achieving all the goals the actors had hoped for, such as residual payments and protections against vocal stress.
The current strike reflects ongoing dissatisfaction and a renewed push for stronger agreements in light of evolving industry challenges related to AI.
