Video game performers represented by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) have initiated a strike over concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the industry. The strike, which began at 12:01 AM Friday, marks the second stoppage for SAG-AFTRA members in the video game sector.
Members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) have gone on strike over concerns about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the video game industry. The strike, which began at 12:01 AM Friday, is the second for SAG-AFTRA members in the video game sector.
SAG-AFTRA Members Strike Over AI Concerns in Video Game Industry
The union has raised concerns about the use of AI in video games, arguing that it could lead to job losses for performers and undermine their livelihood. SAG-AFTRA is seeking to negotiate an agreement with gaming companies that would include protections for performers against the use of AI and other technologies.
"We strike as a matter of last resort," said Ray Rodriguez, SAG-AFTRA Chief Contracts Officer. "We have given this process absolutely as much time as we responsibly can. We have exhausted the other possibilities, and that is why we're doing it now."
SAG-AFTRA Members Strike Over AI Concerns in Video Game Industry
SAG-AFTRA has been negotiating with gaming companies for nearly two years, but the negotiations have reached an impasse over the union's demands for AI protections. The union has argued that the current AI guidance in the industry is too vague and could allow companies to treat performers' work as "data."
"Some performers' work may be treated as 'data' under current AI guidance," Rodriguez said. "We cannot accept that."
SAG-AFTRA Members Strike Over AI Concerns in Video Game Industry
The gaming companies involved in the negotiations include Warner Brothers and the Walt Disney Company. The companies have said that they are disappointed that the union has chosen to strike, but they remain prepared to resume negotiations.
"We are disappointed the union has chosen to walk away when we are so close to a deal," said Audrey Cooling, a spokesperson for the gaming companies. "We remain prepared to resume negotiations."
SAG-AFTRA represents over 2,500 video game performers, including voiceover artists, motion capture performers, and stunt coordinators. The strike could have a significant impact on the video game industry, as it could delay or even halt the production of new games.
The strike is the latest in a series of labor disputes in the video game industry. In 2023, Activision Blizzard employees went on strike over demands for better working conditions. The strike was successful, and Activision Blizzard agreed to improve its working conditions for employees.
The SAG-AFTRA strike is a reminder that the video game industry is still a relatively young industry, and it is still working on its labor relations. As the industry continues to grow, it is likely that there will be more labor disputes in the future.
