Voice actors in "Zenless Zone Zero" have been quietly replaced in response to SAG-AFTRA activities

Voice actors Emeri Chase and Nicholas Thurkettle have reported being replaced in Zenless Zone Zero due to their involvement in the SAG-AFTRA strikes, as observed by Eurogamer. Their voice roles, Soldier 11 and Lycaon, were reportedly substituted, which they discovered through the game's patch notes.

Although Zenless Zone Zero was developed before the strike commenced on July 25, 2024, it is not directly affected by the strike. Nevertheless, voice talent, whether SAG-AFTRA members or not, have the option to support strike efforts.

Chase expressed in a Bluesky post that they chose to refrain from participating in work not protected by a SAG Interim Agreement amid the strike for AI rights. They acknowledged the potential of being replaced, yet hoped the role could remain vacant until their return.

Thurkettle shared his perspective on Bluesky, expressing concern over the impact of AI on the gaming industry. Despite not being a SAG member, he supported protective measures, understanding it may mean losing significant career opportunities.

GamesIndustry.biz has reached out to YoHoVerse for further comments.

These discussions arise in the context of recent events, where the French voice cast of Apex Legends declined contracts due to AI-related clauses. Additionally, SAG-AFTRA initiated strike action in July, advocating for AI protections after failing to finalize agreements with industry representatives.

By September, the union had reached agreements with developers of 80 forthcoming games, securing improved conditions for actors, including safeguards against AI exploitation. In November, a new localization agreement was also established.