SAG-AFTRA Declares Strike for Video Game Work
After a prolonged period of negotiations lasting over a year and a half, SAG-AFTRA has officially announced a strike affecting all video game work produced under the union's interactive media agreement. The strike is set to commence on July 26th at 12:01 AM and will impact all members of the union, including actors, voice actors, and motion capture performers. Major gaming companies such as Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts (EA), Insomniac Games, Warner Bros. Games, and several others are involved in this significant decision.
The Core of the Dispute: AI Protections
The primary point of contention between SAG-AFTRA and video game companies revolves around the issue of artificial intelligence (AI) protections. SAG-AFTRA's press release highlights the union's unwillingness to accept a contract that they believe would allow for exploitation of AI to the detriment of its members.
Fran Drescher, the president of SAG-AFTRA, stated, "We’re not going to consent to a contract that allows companies to abuse AI to the detriment of our members. When these companies get serious about offering an agreement our members can live — and work — with, we will be here, ready to negotiate." This highlights the union's clear stance on ensuring fair treatment for its members in the face of advancing technology.
Video Game Companies Respond
In a statement to The Verge, Audrey Cooling, a spokesperson for the involved video game producers, expressed disappointment with the union's decision to strike. Cooling remarked that the union walked away from negotiations while they were close to an agreement. "We have already found common ground on 24 out of 25 proposals, including historic wage increases and additional safety provisions. Our offer is directly responsive to SAG-AFTRA’s concerns and extends meaningful AI protections that include requiring consent and fair compensation to all performers working under the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA). These terms are among the strongest in the entertainment industry," Cooling added.
Impact of the Strike
SAG-AFTRA's website outlines a comprehensive list of prohibited activities during the strike. This includes a ban on singing, acting, dancing, performing motion capture, rehearsals, and auditions, among other activities. Furthermore, advertising for struck work is also prohibited, which could significantly affect the promotion of games scheduled to be showcased at events like San Diego Comic-Con.
However, SAG-AFTRA has included a clause stating that games being featured at San Diego Comic-Con will be exempt from the strike action, which may provide some relief to those involved in such promotions.
Looking Ahead
The future of video game work under SAG-AFTRA’s jurisdiction hangs in the balance as the union stands firm on its demands for AI protection and fair compensation. As negotiations remain on hold, both sides may need to reconsider their positions to move towards a resolution that works for all parties involved.
For further information, please visit SAG-AFTRA's official website.
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