AI Voice Acting Spotlight as SAG-AFTRA Looms Strike Threat

The video game industry faces potential upheaval as SAG-AFTRA, the union representing voice actors, has authorized a strike against major game developers. This action highlights a critical conflict over fair labor practices and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in performance capture.

SAG-AFTRA Authorizes Strike: A Fight for AI Protections

SAG-AFTRA's Announcement

On July 20th, SAG-AFTRA's National Board unanimously voted to authorize a strike if necessary. This potential strike targets all contracts under the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA), impacting all SAG-AFTRA members working on affected projects. The central issue is securing robust protections against the unauthorized use of AI in voice acting.

National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland stressed the union's unwavering resolve, stating that the overwhelming support for strike authorization (over 98%) underscores the need for a fair deal addressing crucial AI concerns. He highlighted the importance of protecting the performers whose work is vital to the success of popular video games, emphasizing the urgency for a resolution.

Key Issues and Industry Impact

The potential strike stems from the unregulated use of AI in voice acting and performance capture. Currently, no safeguards exist to prevent the unauthorized replication of actors' likenesses and voices through AI. Actors seek fair compensation and clear guidelines for AI usage, ensuring their work is not exploited.

Beyond AI concerns, SAG-AFTRA is also pursuing wage increases reflecting inflation (11% retroactively and 4% increases in subsequent years), improved on-set safety measures (including mandated rest periods, on-site medical personnel for hazardous work, vocal stress protections, and eliminating stunt requirements in self-taped auditions).

A strike's impact on video game development is uncertain. Unlike film and television, video game production spans years. While a strike could disrupt certain stages, the extent of any delays in game releases remains unclear.

Companies Involved and Their Responses

The potential strike targets ten major companies, including Activision, Blindlight, Disney Character Voices, Electronic Arts, Epic Games, Formosa Interactive, Insomniac Games, Take-Two Productions, VoiceWorks Productions, and WB Games. While Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney publicly supported SAG-AFTRA's position on AI training rights, other companies haven't yet issued public statements.

A History of Conflict

The current conflict began in September 2023 with a near-unanimous (98.32%) member vote authorizing a strike before contract negotiations. Negotiations have stalled despite an extension of the previous contract (expired November 2022).

The situation is further complicated by a 2016 strike lasting 340 days, which, while resulting in a compromise, left many members dissatisfied. A January 2024 deal with Replica Studios, an AI voice provider, sparked further internal union tensions over AI's role in performance capture.

The authorized strike signifies a crucial moment in the fight for fair labor practices in the gaming industry. The outcome will significantly impact AI's use in performance capture and the treatment of video game performers. The rapid advancements in AI necessitate strong protections for individuals, ensuring AI enhances, not replaces, human creativity. A swift resolution that addresses the union's concerns is paramount.