SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Overwhelmingly Vote in Favor of Strike
In a crucial move that could impact the booming video game industry, members of SAG-AFTRA, the union representing film, television, and now video game actors, have voted overwhelmingly in favor of authorizing a strike. The vote, which saw an impressive 98.32% of ballots cast in favor of strike action, highlights the pressing concerns that video game performers have regarding their pay, medical treatment, breaks, and protection against the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
The SAG-AFTRA agreement covering video game performers expired in November last year, and negotiations with major gaming companies have been ongoing since then. The union has been fighting for higher pay for its members, stating that their compensation has not kept up with inflation. Additionally, they are seeking increased protections for motion-capture performers who play a crucial role in bringing characters to life in video games. These performers wear markers or sensors on their bodies, which are used by game makers to capture their movements and create realistic characters.
One of the most significant concerns expressed by the union is the lack of safeguards in contracts regarding AI. With the ever-evolving world of technology, there is a real possibility that actors could unknowingly sign away certain rights related to their voice or movements, losing control over them in the process. Ashly Burch, a video game voice actor known for her work in Horizon Zero Dawn, highlighted the need for protections, stating that the industry is at an inflection point and that AI poses specific challenges.
The union is also pushing for on-camera performers to receive the same five-minute rest period per hour that off-camera performers are entitled to. SAG-AFTRA believes that this is a necessary provision to ensure the well-being and fair treatment of video game actors.
Negotiations will now commence between SAG-AFTRA and major video game companies, including Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Epic Games, and Formosa Interactive. Audrey Cooling, speaking on behalf of the video game companies, expressed optimism in finding a resolution at the bargaining table, stating that tentative agreements have already been reached on over half of the proposals put forth by the union.
It is worth noting that this vote comes at a time when Hollywood is already dealing with another strike, as the Writers Guild of America reached a preliminary labor agreement with major studios after its members walked off the job in May.
The outcome of these negotiations will have far-reaching impacts on the future of video game production and the treatment of actors within the industry. With the overwhelming support for strike action from SAG-AFTRA members, it is clear that video game performers are demanding higher pay, improved working conditions, and safeguards against the potential threats posed by AI. Only time will tell how the negotiations unfold and whether a resolution can be reached to address these pressing concerns.
