AI Voice Acting in Focus as SAG-AFTRA Threatens Another Strike For VA's Rights

The video game industry faces potential upheaval as SAG-AFTRA, the union representing voice actors and performers, has authorized a strike against major game developers. This article explores 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, the SAG-AFTRA National Board voted unanimously to authorize a strike against companies bound by the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA). This empowers the union's leadership to call a strike if negotiations fail. The key sticking point is securing robust AI protections for performers.

National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland highlighted the union's unwavering commitment, stating that the overwhelming support (over 98%) for strike authorization underscores the urgency for fair AI provisions and adequate compensation for actors whose work is central to the success of popular video games. The deadline for a resolution is fast approaching.

Key Issues and Industry Impact

The primary concern is the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and motion capture. Currently, there are no safeguards against AI replication of actors' likenesses. SAG-AFTRA seeks compensation for AI usage and clear guidelines on its implementation. Beyond AI concerns, the union is also seeking fair wage increases to match inflation (11% retroactive pay and 4% increases for the following two years), improved on-set safety measures (including mandatory rest breaks and on-site medics), and protection against vocal strain.

A strike's impact on video game development is uncertain. Unlike film and television, the lengthy development cycles of video games could mean that while production might slow, major release delays may be less immediate.

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 has publicly supported SAG-AFTRA's position, but other companies remain silent.

Negotiation History and Background

The conflict's roots lie in September 2023, when SAG-AFTRA members overwhelmingly authorized a strike before contract negotiations even began. Negotiations have stalled despite an extension of the previous contract, which expired in November 2022.

The current dispute echoes a 2016 strike, lasting 340 days, which focused on similar issues. A subsequent deal with Replica Studios, allowing voice licensing to AI, sparked internal union tensions and further complicated the situation.

This potential strike highlights the crucial need for fair labor practices in the gaming industry's evolving landscape. The outcome will shape the future of AI in performance capture and the treatment of video game performers. Protecting human creativity and ensuring AI enhances, not replaces, human talent is paramount. The high stakes demand a swift and equitable resolution.