Major video game makers are currently facing a potential strike by Hollywood performers over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in video game production. The strike comes after a year and a half of negotiations between companies like Activision, Warner Bros, and Walt Disney, and a union representing over 2,500 video game performers.
While both sides have reached agreements on issues such as wages and job safety, the use of AI technology remains a major point of contention. The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (Sag-Aftra) called for the strike, expressing concerns about gaming studios using generative AI to replicate performers’ voices and appearances without fair compensation.
Sag-Aftra stated, “We’re not going to consent to a contract that allows companies to abuse AI to the detriment of our members.” However, video game studios argue that they have already made significant concessions to the union’s demands, including meaningful AI protections that require consent and fair compensation for performers.
The Interactive Media Agreement, which covers voiceover services and on-camera work for video game characters, has been extended on a monthly basis while negotiations continue. Last year, TV and film actors in the US won $1 billion in new pay and benefits, as well as safeguards on AI use, following a strike organized by Sag-Aftra.
The potential strike could have significant implications for the video game industry, as well as for the performers and studios involved. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
