Actors Demand AI Protections in Landmark Video Game Negotiations

Video game actors, represented by the SAG-AFTRA union, are set to resume in-person negotiations with major studios after a two-month strike that has halted numerous productions. The key sticking point in the negotiations is the demand for stronger protections against the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in their work.

Securing the Future of Video Game Performances

Striking for AI Safeguards

The video game industry has experienced a significant disruption as the SAG-AFTRA strike has slowed or halted work on many high-profile projects. The union is fighting for stronger protections against the use of AI in video game performances, a concern that has become increasingly pressing as the technology continues to advance.The studios have already conceded much of their control over AI use to the actors, but the union is determined to ensure that all of its members are protected. "The industry has told us point blank that they do not necessarily consider everyone who is rendering movement performance to be a performer that is covered by the collective bargaining agreement," explained SAG-AFTRA Chief Contracts Officer Ray Rodriguez.Motion capture performer Andi Norris, who is on the union's negotiation team, elaborated on the issue: "I can crawl all over the floor and the walls as such-and-such creature, and [the studios] will argue that is not performance, and so that is not subject to their AI protections."

Widespread Impact of the Strike

The strike has had a significant impact on the video game industry, with the largest studios' work being slowed or halted on many projects. However, most independent studios have signed side deals to continue working with union talent.The list of studios impacted by the strike includes industry giants such as Activision, Electronic Arts, Disney Character Voices, Formosa Interactive, Insomniac Games, and Warner Bros. Games. The strike has highlighted the importance of the video game actors' role in the industry and the need for fair and equitable treatment.

Resuming Negotiations

After two months of the strike, the in-person negotiations between the SAG-AFTRA representatives and the major video game studios are set to resume on October 23rd. Both sides have agreed on 24 out of 25 proposals, but the final proposal, which focuses on AI protections, remains a sticking point.The upcoming negotiations will be crucial in determining the future of video game performances and the rights of the actors who bring these virtual worlds to life. The outcome of these talks will have far-reaching implications for the industry and the creative professionals who are the backbone of the video game experience.

Lightspeed L.A. Sets Precedent

In a positive development, major video game studio Lightspeed L.A. has been approved by SAG-AFTRA to continue working on its next release after agreeing to interim terms regarding AI regulations. This agreement sets a precedent and demonstrates the union's willingness to collaborate with studios that are willing to address the actors' concerns."I am delighted to be partnering with Lightspeed L.A.," said SAG-AFTRA Executive Director and Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland. "Their upcoming game may be set in a world of technology run amok, but by agreeing to equitable terms, they're working to make sure that the real future will not be a dystopian one for performers. My gratitude to Steve [Martin], the entire crew at Lightspeed L.A., and the SAG-AFTRA members working on this project, all of whom made this collaboration possible."This agreement serves as a positive example of how studios and unions can work together to find a mutually beneficial solution that protects the rights of the performers while allowing the industry to continue thriving.