The SAG-AFTRA video game performers' union has reached a tentative agreement with several major game companies, potentially concluding a lengthy strike initiated over AI concerns.
Reasons for the SAG-AFTRA Strike
SAG-AFTRA members began their strike in July 2024 after negotiations with top game makers stalled. The union expressed concerns over the threats posed by unregulated AI to performers, stating that it could present greater risks than in film or television.
Negotiating Parties
SAG-AFTRA was negotiating with a group of companies including Activision, Electronic Arts, along with Blindlight LLC, Disney Character Voices Inc., Epic Games Inc., Formosa Interactive LLC, Insomniac Games Inc., Take-Two Productions Inc., and WB Games Inc. The union expects to finalize the terms of a strike suspension agreement soon.
Next Steps and Strike History
Once the agreement is finalized, it must be approved by the SAG-AFTRA National Board and ratified by union members. In the past, video game performers also went on strike in October 2016, lasting about eleven months.
The tentative agreement reached by SAG-AFTRA with game companies may significantly influence the protection of performers' rights in the age of artificial intelligence.
