Video game actors are on the brink of a potential walkout as negotiations between the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and major video game companies hit a roadblock over contract terms related to artificial intelligence (AI). SAG-AFTRA’s national board has granted its national executive director and chief negotiator, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the authority to call for a strike if a settlement cannot be reached with the companies.
This development comes almost a year after a resounding 98% of SAG-AFTRA’s 30,000 union members voted in favor of authorizing a strike during negotiations for a new Interactive Media Agreement. The previous contract expired in November 2022 and covered approximately 2,600 performers engaged in voice and motion-capture work within the video game industry.
In a statement, Crabtree-Ireland emphasized the union’s unwavering resolve and commitment to its membership, highlighting their exceptional performances that form the essence of the world’s most popular video games. He warned that time is running out for the companies to reach a deal.
The primary point of contention revolves around AI, with game performers arguing that they are particularly vulnerable due to their specialization in voice-over work. They are seeking a contract that would require producers to obtain their consent before using AI to reproduce their voices or likeness. Additionally, performers are demanding compensation when AI is employed to replicate their performances. Wage increases to keep up with inflation, increased rest time, and the provision of set medics for stunts and hazardous jobs are also part of their demands.
The Times has reached out to a spokesperson for the video game companies for comment, but no response has been received at the time of writing.
This move by SAG-AFTRA follows a strike by TV and movie actors lasting 118 days, which occurred approximately a year ago and also involved disputes related to AI. The last strike by video game actors took place in October 2016.