SAG-AFTRA announces a "video game strike" set to commence tomorrow

The Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has announced a strike, beginning at 12:01 am on July 26.

This action follows the unanimous decision by the SAG-AFTRA National Board to authorize their lead negotiator to initiate a strike in order to safeguard voice actors, particularly as the use of generative AI by studios increases.

Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the national executive director and chief negotiator, stated that the decision to strike follows "more than a year and a half of discussions [concerning the Interactive Media Agreement] without reaching a resolution."

The parties involved in these negotiations with SAG-AFTRA are Activision, Blindlight, Disney, Electronic Arts, Formosa Interactive, Insomnia, Llama Productions, Take 2 Productions, VoiceWorks Productions, and WB Games.

SAG-AFTRA aimed to secure vital AI-related safeguards for its members, proposing that any project seeking to hire SAG-AFTRA talent be required to sign either the new Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, the Interactive Media Agreement, or the Interim Interactive Localization Agreement.

The guild argues that while numerous significant issues have been settled, the companies have not committed to unequivocally protecting performers in the AI clauses as per the contract.

Crabtree-Ireland emphasized, "The video game sector generates huge profits annually, driven by the creative minds behind these games, including SAG-AFTRA members who breathe life into noteworthy game characters. They merit the same essential protections as those in film, TV, streaming, and music: just pay and the right to informed consent regarding AI use of their likeness."

He added, "It’s astonishing that video game firms haven't heeded last year’s lessons — that our members will insist on fair and just treatment concerning AI, with public backing."

In a statement to Gamesindustry.biz, Audrey Cooling, a spokesperson for the video game companies engaged in the IMA talks, expressed:

"We are disheartened by the union’s decision to step away when we are on the verge of an agreement, and we are ready to continue discussions. We have aligned on 24 out of 25 points, including significant wage hikes and new safety measures.

"Our proposal addresses SAG-AFTRA’s concerns, offering meaningful AI protections that ensure consent and fair pay for all performers under the IMA. These terms rank among the industry’s strongest."