by A lengthy 11-month walkout by video game actors is set to end this week, as union members cast their votes on a proposed deal that includes salary increases, authority over their images, and essential safeguards against artificial intelligence.
SAG-AFTRA members have until Wednesday at 5 p.m. Pacific time to approve the agreement. Voice and motion capture artists expressed major worries that unchecked AI usage could replace them and jeopardize their creative independence. Sarah Elmaleh, a voice actor and chair of SAG-AFTRA's interactive branch negotiation committee, said the experience was "like a huge weight suddenly lifted." She noted that although "it's definitely not completely settled," the idea of ending the conflict "feels like a relief and a release."
Concerns regarding AI are particularly severe in the video game sector, where human actors bring characters to life with unique movements, screams, falls, and story-changing dialogue.
"I hope and I believe that our members, when they reflect on this, will conclude that all the sacrifices and challenges we endured to reach this agreement were worthwhile because we now have the essential components needed to feel assured and continue progressing in this industry," said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the SAG-AFTRA national executive director and lead negotiator.
Take a look at the agreement now being voted on, and what it could signify for the future of the video game industry.
What was the progression of the ongoing strike?
Video game actors went on strike in July after almost two years of unsuccessful talks with top game studios, with both parties still divided on rules for AI-generated content.
Over 160 games have entered into temporary agreements that include AI clauses which SAG-AFTRA was pursuing, the union stated, enabling certain work to proceed.
The video game sector represents a huge worldwide business, with projections of $187 billion in revenue for 2024, as reported by the gaming market analyst Newzoo.
"OD," and "Physint" were two games postponed because of the strike during the filming and casting process, according to the video game developer.Hideo Kojima wrote in December. Riot GamesA video game developer announced during the same month that certain new skins in "League of Legends" would need to utilize existing voice-overs, as new content could not be recorded by striking actors. Skins are visual items that alter a player's appearance and occasionally include new voice-overs and distinctive recorded lines.
The suggested agreement "builds upon three decades of effective collaboration between the interactive entertainment sector and the union" to provide "historic pay raises" and "cutting-edge AI terms," stated Audrey Cooling, a representative from the video game developers participating in the arrangement.
"We are excited about continuing to collaborate with artists to develop fresh and captivating entertainment opportunities for billions of players around the globe," Cooling wrote.
Video game actors had previously gone on strike in October 2016, and a preliminary agreement was finally made 11 months later. This strike led to the establishment of a bonus payment system for voice actors and motion capture artists. The deal was approved by 90% of members, with 10% casting their votes.
The suggested agreement ensures a rise in artist pay of slightly more than 15% once approved, along with a further 3% boost annually throughout the three-year term.
In what ways might artificial intelligence evolve within video games?
Concerns about AI have become the main focus as industries in different fields struggle to keep pace with rapidly advancing technology. It's a battle thatHollywoodwriters and actors participated in during the historic film and television strikes that halted the industry in 2023.
Over the past few years, it's clear we've reached a turning point where guidelines for AI need to be established, and without them, the outcomes could be extremely severe," Crabtree-Ireland stated. "I believe this made the negotiation especially significant for everyone involved.
Leaders of SAG-AFTRA have described the issues involved in the labor conflict — especially AI — as a critical threat to actors. They argue that the images and voices of game voice actors and motion capture artists could be duplicated by AI and utilized without their permission or appropriate payment.
The suggested agreement outlines specific limitations on the timing and methods by which video game developers can produce digital copies, utilizing artificial intelligence to craft new performances that were not captured by an actor.
Employers are required to get written approval from a performer in order to develop a digital version — this agreement must be given while the performer is alive and remains effective after their death, unless specified otherwise, according to the contract. The time needed to create the digital replica will be paid as if it were actual work time for a new performance.
The contract also mandates that the employer furnish the performer with a usage report outlining how the copy was utilized and determines the anticipated payment.
Elmaleh, who has been involved in voice acting since 2010 and missed out on opportunities during the strike, mentioned that achieving these benefits meant voice actors needed to show sincerity and honesty at the negotiation table.
We discussed extensively the personal aspect, how it influences our displacement as workers and the sustainability of our careers," Elmaleh said. "Our work involves your inner child. It's about being very vulnerable, it's about being playful.
What comes next for the gaming industry?
The proposed deal focuses on consent, payment, and openness, which union representatives claim are essential components for the industry to continue advancing.
As the agreement is being reviewed by union members, Elmaleh and Crabtree-Ireland stated that additional efforts are required to make sure the terms are as comprehensive as possible.
Although there is an agreement that has been reached now, and we have secured many essential protections and safeguards, the areas we have not yet accomplished will continue to be our focus," Crabtree-Ireland stated. "Each time these contracts come up for renewal is our opportunity to make them better.
Elmaleh expressed her hope that both video game companies and performers will soon collaborate to create guidelines for AI as the technology advances — a process she mentioned should begin before the proposed contract is set to expire in October 2028.
Taking the lead in negotiations has been a full-time responsibility for Elmaleh, who assumed the position on a voluntary basis. With the efforts slowing down, she mentioned that she is eager to go back to video game acting in an environment that is more secure for performers.
Voice acting "is fundamental to who I am. It's why I worked so hard for this opportunity. I wouldn't be doing this if I didn't have such a deep passion for my work. I believe it's truly unique and deserves to be safeguarded," she stated.
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