Hollywood video game performers, including voice actors and motion capture artists, are striking against AI ‘abuse’ and lack of protections in the gaming industry, highlighting concerns over job security and fair compensation.
Points
- Video game performers strike against AI ‘abuse’ in the industry.
- SAG-AFTRA demands AI protections and fair compensation.
- Failed negotiations with major video game companies.
- Strike affects Activision, EA, Disney, and more.
- Calls for enforceable AI language in contracts.
Hollywood video game performers, including voice actors and motion capture artists, are set to strike, protesting against what they term as AI ‘abuse’ in the gaming industry. The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists （SAG-AFTRA） and the Interactive Media Agreement have confirmed that the strike will commence on July 26, following an 18-month-long unsuccessful negotiation with major video game publishers.
The strike involves prominent companies such as Activision Productions, Disney Character Voices, Formosa Interactive, Electronic Arts Productions, and Insomniac Games. SAG-AFTRA is pushing for these firms to sign contracts that provide critical AI protections for their members. Despite some agreements on wage increases and additional safety provisions, the employers have refused to affirm enforceable language protecting performers from AI misuse.
Actors Demand AI Protections
The demands for AI protections are central to the strike. SAG-AFTRA members are concerned that without explicit contractual protections, AI-generated faces and voices could be used without consent, undermining job security and fair compensation for their work. Fran Drescher, SAG-AFTRA’s president, emphasized that the union would not agree to contracts allowing companies to exploit AI to the detriment of their members.
These actors are pivotal to the success of the video game industry, which generates billions of dollars in profits annually. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s national executive director, highlighted the necessity of fair compensation and informed consent for AI use, aligning video game performers’ rights with those in film, television, streaming, and music industries.
Industry Response and Broader Implications
A spokesperson for the video game companies expressed disappointment with the strike decision, claiming that substantial progress had been made on many proposals. However, the refusal to compromise on AI clauses remains a sticking point.
This strike follows a similar action in June 2023 by film and television performers, who also demanded protections against the unauthorized use of AI. Sarah Elmaleh, chair of the Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee, condemned the entertainment companies for their unwillingness to compromise on AI issues, labeling their stance as “flagrant exploitation.”
解説
- AI in the Gaming Industry: The increasing use of AI in the gaming industry has raised significant concerns among performers about job security and fair compensation. The ability of AI to replicate voices and faces without consent poses a threat to traditional roles.
- Union Actions: The SAG-AFTRA strike highlights the broader movement among unions to secure protections against AI exploitation. The union’s stance reflects a growing recognition of the need to address AI-related challenges in various industries.
- Economic Impact: The strike could have a substantial economic impact on the video game industry. Delays in game production and potential losses from halted projects underscore the importance of resolving these disputes.
- Future Contracts: The outcome of this strike could set a precedent for future contracts in the entertainment industry. Enforceable AI language in contracts might become standard practice to ensure that performers’ rights are safeguarded.
- Technological Advancements: As AI technology continues to advance, industries will need to adapt to new ethical and regulatory standards. Balancing innovation with fair treatment of workers will be crucial for sustainable growth.