SAG-AFTRA Secures AI Protections in Landmark Agreement with Gaming Giants

SAG-AFTRA's Strike Against Video Game Companies: A Fight for AI Protections and Fair Compensation

SAG-AFTRA, the actors' union, initiated a strike against major video game companies, including Activision and Electronic Arts, on July 26th. This action follows protracted negotiations, highlighting key concerns about AI usage and fair compensation for performers.

Core Issues: AI and Fair Treatment

The central conflict revolves around the unregulated use of artificial intelligence in video game production. While not inherently opposed to AI technology, SAG-AFTRA members express serious apprehension about its potential to replace human actors. Key concerns include:

• Unauthorized replication of actors' voices and likenesses.
• AI's potential to supplant smaller roles, hindering career progression for emerging talent.
• Ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated content that may not align with an actor's values.

Temporary Solutions and New Agreements

To address these challenges, SAG-AFTRA has developed new agreements, including the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement (I-IMA). This agreement, applicable to projects with budgets between $250,000 and $30 million, offers a tiered structure adjusting rates and terms based on budget size. Crucially, it incorporates AI protections previously rejected by the video game industry bargaining group.

A January side deal with Replica Studios allows union members to license digital voice replicas under specific terms, including the right to opt out of perpetual use.

The Interim Interactive Media Agreement and Interim Interactive Localization Agreement provide temporary solutions covering various aspects, including:

• Right of Rescission
• Compensation
• Rate Maximums
• AI/Digital Modeling Protections
• Rest and Meal Periods
• Payment Terms
• Health and Retirement Benefits
• Casting and Auditions
• Location Employment

These interim agreements exclude expansion packs and downloadable content, but projects approved under them are exempt from the strike.

Negotiation Timeline and Union Resolve

Negotiations began in October 2022. A strong 98.32% vote on September 24, 2023, authorized the strike. Despite progress on other issues, the lack of enforceable AI protections remains the primary sticking point.

SAG-AFTRA leadership emphasizes the industry's substantial profits and the vital contribution of its members. The union remains resolute in its pursuit of fair treatment and robust AI protections for its members.

The strike underscores the ongoing tension between technological advancement and the rights and livelihoods of creative professionals in the rapidly evolving video game industry.