SAG-AFTRA Strikes Over AI Protections Against Major Video Game Companies

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

SAG-AFTRA initiated a strike against major video game companies, including Activision and Electronic Arts, on July 26th, 2024, following protracted negotiations. This action underscores the union's concerns about the irresponsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the need for fair compensation for its members.

Key Issues Fueling the Strike:

The core dispute centers on the unchecked proliferation of AI in video game production. While not inherently opposed to AI technology, SAG-AFTRA members express deep concern about its potential to displace human performers. Key anxieties include:

• Unauthorized AI Replication: The possibility of AI replicating actors' voices and likenesses without their consent or compensation.
• Erosion of Opportunities: The fear that AI could supplant human actors, particularly in smaller roles that often serve as crucial stepping stones for aspiring performers.
• Ethical Considerations: Concerns that AI-generated content might not align with actors' personal values or beliefs.

Temporary Solutions and New Agreements:

To address these challenges, SAG-AFTRA has implemented several agreements designed to provide temporary solutions and protect its members during the strike. These include:

• Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement (I-IMA): This framework offers varying rates and terms based on a game's budget (between $250,000 and $30 million), providing a structure for lower-budget projects. Crucially, it incorporates AI protections previously rejected by the video game industry bargaining group.

• Interim Interactive Media Agreement and Interim Interactive Localization Agreement: These agreements offer temporary solutions covering key areas such as compensation, AI usage, rest periods, and payment terms. Importantly, projects approved under these agreements are exempt from the strike.

A significant development was a January 2024 side deal with Replica Studios, enabling unionized actors to license digital replicas of their voices under strict terms, including the right to opt out of perpetual use.

The agreements specifically exclude expansion packs and downloadable content released after the initial game launch.

Negotiation Timeline and Union Resolve:

Negotiations began in October 2022. On September 24th, 2023, SAG-AFTRA members overwhelmingly (98.32%) authorized a strike. Despite progress on some issues, the lack of robust AI protections remains the primary obstacle.

Union leaders have expressed unwavering determination to secure fair treatment and AI protections for their members. They highlight the substantial profits of the video game industry and the indispensable contribution of SAG-AFTRA actors.

The strike underscores the union's commitment to ensuring ethical AI practices and fair compensation in the evolving landscape of the video game industry. The outcome will significantly impact the future of AI usage and labor practices within the sector.