Video Game Actors Strike for AI Protections: A New Battle in the Gaming Industry

Image Credit: Jacky Lee | Art Director, TheDayAfterAI News Channel

For the first time since 2017, video game actors are on strike, demanding better pay, improved safety measures, and crucial protections from generative AI technologies. This move comes after months of unsuccessful negotiations with major publishers like Activision Blizzard and Epic Games. The strike officially commenced on July 26, marking a significant moment in the gaming industry's history. As actors take to the picket lines, the ripple effects of their actions could influence the development and marketing of major game titles.

SAG-AFTRA's Fight for Rights and Fair Compensation

Members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) have been working without an Interactive Media Agreement since November 2022. The decision to strike was fueled by the industry's reluctance to grant performers rights over how their work is used in AI training or for creating AI-generated copies. Prominent voice actors and motion capture artists, such as Troy Baker and Jennifer Hale, stand united in this battle for fair compensation and the right of informed consent regarding the use of their likenesses.

The Billion-Dollar Industry and Its Creative Workforce

Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s chief negotiator, highlighted the immense profits generated by the video game industry, attributing its success to the creative talents who bring characters to life. These performers deserve the same protections as their counterparts in film, television, and music. The industry's failure to learn from last year's Hollywood strikes underscores the need for fair and equitable treatment of actors, particularly in the context of AI's growing influence.

The Impact on Upcoming Game Releases

While games scheduled for release this fall, such as Dragon Age: The Veilguard, have likely completed their voice and motion-capture work, the strike could disrupt projects slated for the coming years. SAG-AFTRA members' unavailability could hinder last-minute re-writes and recordings, affecting the final quality of games. As the gaming industry increasingly relies on full voice acting and motion capture, the strike underscores the critical role actors play in bringing these digital worlds to life.

The Existential Threat of AI in Gaming

The current strike differs from the 2016 action, which focused primarily on pay rates, by addressing the existential threat posed by AI. Companies like Activision Blizzard and Riot Games are already exploring generative AI tools to create concept art and assets for games. This development raises significant concerns for actors, whose creative contributions might be overshadowed or replaced by AI-generated content, fundamentally altering the nature of their work and the industry as a whole.

A Panel at San Diego Comicon

SAG-AFTRA video game voice actors, including Ashly Burch and Noshir Dala, are set to discuss these pressing issues at a panel during San Diego Comicon. This event provides a platform for actors to share their experiences and perspectives on the strike, AI's impact, and their fight for fair treatment. The panel will also serve to inform and rally public support for their cause, highlighting the broader implications of AI in creative industries.

Learning from Hollywood

The Hollywood strikes of the previous year demonstrated the power of collective action in demanding fair treatment and rights. Video game actors are now following suit, leveraging their collective strength to push for necessary changes in their industry. The public's support will be crucial in this endeavor, as actors strive to ensure their contributions are recognized and valued in an increasingly AI-driven world.

The Future of AI and Human Creativity in Gaming

As the strike unfolds, it brings to the forefront critical discussions about the future of AI and human creativity in the gaming industry. The resolution of these issues will set important precedents for how AI technologies are integrated into creative processes. Ensuring that human talent and ingenuity are protected and fairly compensated is essential for maintaining the integrity and richness of the gaming experience. The outcome of this strike could shape the industry's trajectory for years to come.

Source: https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/07/video-game-actors-go-on-strike-for-ai-protections/