SAG-AFTRA Reaches AI Deal With Game Studios

The Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has reached a "tentative agreement" on the interactive media contract, potentially concluding nearly a year of labor disputes across the video game industry.

The SAG-AFTRA video game strike began in July 2024 when negotiations between the union and major gaming companies—including Activision, Blindlight, Disney Character Voices, Electronic Arts, Epic Games, Formosa Interactive, Insomniac Games, Take 2 Productions, and WB Games—broke down over AI protections. Over 98% of members voted to authorize the strike.

While initial impacts seemed uncertain, players soon noticed changes - Destiny 2 and World of Warcraft suddenly featured muted NPCs in previously voiced scenes. The situation escalated when Riot Games reportedly attempted to circumvent the strike by canceling a project, while Activision confirmed character recasting in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 due to concerns about replacement voices.

The tentative agreement now awaits review by the union's national board. While strike action may soon be suspended, SAG-AFTRA members will remain on strike until final approval. "We deeply appreciate our members' sacrifices during this prolonged dispute," said SAG-AFTRA's chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland. "This agreement establishes crucial AI protections that safeguard performers' careers in the digital age."

Conflict arose when SAG-AFTRA filed complaints against Epic Games for using AI-generated Darth Vader voices in Fortnite without union consultation. The complaint alleged Epic's subsidiary Llama Productions failed to negotiate in good faith regarding AI replacements for union work.

Voice actors continue advocating for protections. Horizon's Ashly Burch addressed concerns after an AI-generated Aloy video surfaced, stating: "We're fighting for three fundamental rights: consent before AI replication, fair compensation, and transparency about AI usage." The acclaimed performer expressed fears about the art form's future: "Unchecked AI implementation could eliminate opportunities for human performers. We must establish safeguards now to preserve our industry's creative integrity."