SAG-AFTRA members have sent a resounding message by voting overwhelmingly in favor of a strike authorization for performers working in the video game industry. This authorization, with 98.32% of the 34,687 members voting “yes,” grants the union the potential to call for a strike, though it doesn’t automatically trigger one. The decision comes as a result of protracted negotiations for a new contract with video game companies, which have been ongoing since 2022.
Leverage for Negotiations
The union’s leadership views this strike authorization as a critical tool to strengthen their bargaining position during upcoming negotiations scheduled for September 26, 27, and 28. The union believes that the authorization will exert the necessary pressure on video game companies to agree to the terms demanded by its members. Among the companies currently engaged in negotiations are Activision, Blindlight, Disney Character Voices, Electronic Arts, Epic Games, Formosa Interactive, Insomniac Games, Take 2 Productions, VoiceWorks Productions, and WB Games.
Key Demands
SAG-AFTRA’s key demands include wage increases to help performers maintain a livelihood amid rising inflation, improved safety measures on set, and a contract that safeguards performers against the exploitative use of artificial intelligence (AI). Specifically, they seek protection from unauthorized uses of their likeness and voice by companies employing generative AI. These issues bear a striking resemblance to the challenges that have led to ongoing strikes in the film and TV industry.
Parallel with the Film and TV Industry
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) is currently negotiating with major studios, with one of the significant points of contention being the use of generative AI in content production. The concerns raised by both SAG-AFTRA and WGA reflect the broader industry’s grappling with issues of fair compensation, working conditions, and the ethical implications of AI and automation in creative processes.
