SAG-AFTRA, a union representing performers in the entertainment industry, has initiated a strike involving its members who work in the video game sector. The main point of contention is the use of motion-capture actors’ performances for AI training, which the union views as detrimental to its members.
This strike is reminiscent of previous actions taken by SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America (WGA) concerning concerns about AI-generated work and the exploitation of member work for AI training. The chief negotiator for SAG-AFTRA, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, emphasized the importance of fair and equitable treatment with respect to AI and expressed disappointment that video game studios have not learned from past lessons.
As a result of the strike, over 160,000 union members will withhold their talent from games produced by major companies such as Disney, Electronic Arts, Blizzard Activision, and others. While some games may be exempt from the strike due to interim agreements or previous launches, the refusal to provide talent is a significant statement from the union.
The major point of contention in the negotiations revolves around on-camera performers, particularly motion capture actors. While voice performers have received AI training protections, motion and stunt performers have been excluded. Crabtree-Ireland emphasized the importance of informed consent and fair compensation for all performers, regardless of their specific roles.
The impact of the strike on game production remains uncertain due to the complex and secretive nature of the industry. Game development involves multiple stages, from conception to casting to release, making it challenging to predict the immediate effects of a performer strike. SAG-AFTRA provides a tool for checking if a game title is affected by the strike, but its accuracy is limited to specific production titles and codes.
This strike is not the first time video game performers in SAG-AFTRA have taken action. A previous strike in 2016 focused on long-term royalties and lasted 340 days, resulting in pay raises for actors but leaving issues such as residuals and vocal stress unaddressed. The impact of the strike was somewhat mitigated by the hiring of non-union replacements for affected titles, highlighting the challenges faced by voice actors in the industry.
Overall, the current strike by SAG-AFTRA members underscores the importance of fair treatment and compensation for performers in the video game sector. The union’s actions highlight the ongoing struggle to protect the rights of actors and ensure that their contributions to the industry are valued and respected.
