SAG-AFTRA has announced a Do Not Work Order directed at Capcom, citing the company's "failure to initiate the signatory process"

The labor union SAG-AFTRA, which includes 160,000 members such as actors and voiceover professionals, has announced a "Do Not Work Order" concerning the new Mega Man game, Mega Man: Dual Override, developed by Capcom.

According to a release from the union, the decision stems from the game's producer not commencing the necessary signatory process.

The union has directed its members to withhold their performances or any related work for this game until further notice is issued.

This order impacts voice actor Ben Diskin, preventing him from reprising his Mega Man role. Diskin shared on BlueSky: "I was invited back for Mega Man: Dual Override but was told I'd need to participate without union contract protections."

Diskin noted that although assurances were given regarding AI protection of his voice, there was also a clear statement from Capcom that the project won't be unionized. He expressed concerns about working without a contract that he could effectively enforce.

The prospect of challenging a large corporation like Capcom in court over potential AI misuse was daunting for Diskin, who cited the significant mental and financial toll such an endeavor would entail.

"While I hope Capcom wouldn't utilize AI, I recognize the trend of major companies exploring generative AI as a cost-saving measure," Diskin stated.

Diskin elaborated on the precarious nature of the gaming industry, highlighting recent layoffs and the uncertainty affecting it, asserting his need for a union contract for security.

He further mentioned his willingness to accept a lower-budget union agreement if it meant a resolution could be achieved. Diskin cherished the time voicing Mega Man in the highly successful Mega Man 11 and noted the character's regained prominence.

In July 2024, SAG-AFTRA decided to strike due to unresolved issues with the bargaining group concerning AI technology rights and protections.

By March 2025, the union acknowledged a persistent divide from game publishers regarding these negotiations, especially after two voice actors from Zenless Zone Zero were reportedly replaced over their participation in union strikes.

SAG-AFTRA officially ended its nearly year-long strikes in June of the previous year.