Video game performers to strike over AI concerns

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Video game AI strike

Hollywood’s video game performers announced a strike on Thursday, citing issues with the Video game AI strike. Talks for a new contract with major game studios broke down over artificial intelligence protections. #VideoGameAIStrike

The Video game AI strike, the second for voice actors and motion capture performers, will start at 12:01 a.m. Friday. This strike follows nearly two years of negotiations with major gaming companies like Activision, Warner Bros., and Disney. The new interactive media agreement remains unresolved, prompting this significant work stoppage.

SAG-AFTRA negotiators have made progress on wages and job safety, but remain divided on generative AI regulations. Audrey Cooling, a spokesperson for video game producers, said studios offered AI protections. However, SAG-AFTRA’s committee believes that defining who qualifies as a “performer” is crucial for understanding the protection issue.

SAG-AFTRA Chief Contracts Officer Ray Rodriguez said at a news conference Thursday afternoon that the industry does not always recognize all individuals providing movement performance as covered by the collective bargaining agreement. He noted that some physical performances are being treated as “data.”

The union warned that without guardrails, game companies might use AI to replicate an actor’s voice or likeness. This could happen without the actor’s consent or fair compensation. #VideoGameAIStrike

Cooling said the companies’ offer “extends meaningful AI protections.”

“We are disappointed the union has chosen to walk away when we are so close to a deal, and we remain prepared to resume negotiations,” she said.

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