The ongoing strike by video game actors, which began on July 26, may soon affect online games if the dispute over generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) remains unresolved. The union SAG-Aftra, representing around 2,500 performers, has been in contention with game companies over AI’s role in game development, particularly concerning the replication of human performances.
During a recent picket outside Warner Bros’ offices, one of the ten game companies negotiating with SAG-Aftra, the union voiced concerns that the current offers from game developers do not provide adequate protections for performers. According to Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-Aftra’s chief negotiator, the dispute primarily revolves around how Gen AI is used to replicate human performances without fair compensation.
The strike’s immediate impact on video game production is somewhat limited. Games that began development before September 2023 are exempt from strike action, meaning this year’s major releases, including the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6, are unlikely to be affected. However, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland predicts that “live gaming” titles, such as Fortnite and Apex Legends, which are regularly updated with new content, will experience the strike’s effects sooner.
Despite this, many popular online games were developed before the strike began, and Electronic Arts, which produces several live-service games, has stated it does not expect immediate disruptions. The union has indicated that if the strike extends beyond 60 days, it will include live-service games in its actions.
The core issue of the strike is the use of AI to replicate performances. Generative AI systems, which produce content based on existing data, could potentially duplicate actors’ voices, faces, and bodies without proper compensation. This concern follows a similar dispute that halted Hollywood productions last year, also led by SAG-Aftra.
Stunt performers are particularly worried, as their motion-captured movements could be used to create in-game animations, treated as data rather than performances. Actor Abubakar Salim, known for his role in Assassin’s Creed: Origins, expressed fears about AI replacing human voices and performances. He argues that while AI can augment game development, it cannot replace the human touch essential to quality content.
Crabtree-Ireland emphasizes that SAG-Aftra is not opposed to AI but seeks a “fair and ethical” agreement to ensure performers are not exploited. The union urges for protective measures as AI technology advances rapidly, asserting that other industries have already addressed similar concerns, leaving video game companies increasingly isolated in their stance.
As negotiations continue, the future of video game production and the role of AI in the industry remain uncertain, with the potential for broader impacts on both game development and the performers who bring these games to life.
