Protesting Unregulated Use of Artificial Intelligence in Video Game Performances
Hollywood video game performers are taking a stand against major gaming companies’ lack of protection for voice actors and motion capture crews in the face of unregulated use of artificial intelligence. The issue has led to the first major industrial action in the industry, with game voice actors and performance workers voting to strike after failed negotiations with companies like Activision, Warner Bros., and The Walt Disney Co.
The Threat of Artificial Intelligence to Performers
Union leaders view artificial intelligence as a significant threat to performers, as it has the ability to replicate the likenesses of game voice actors and motion capture artists without their consent or fair compensation. This unregulated use of artificial intelligence poses a greater risk to performers in the video games industry compared to the film and television industry due to the ease and low cost of creating convincing digital replicas.
Negotiations and Industry Response
Despite claims from video game makers that they have offered protection and salary increases to SAG-AFTRA’s represented performers, the union’s negotiating committee remains at odds with studios over the definition of who qualifies as a “performer” under the collective bargaining agreement. The industry bargaining group, which includes companies like Activision Productions Inc. and WB Games Inc., continues to negotiate with the union in an effort to reach an agreement and end the strike.
According to forecasts from Newzoo, the global video game industry saw revenue of nearly US$184 billion in 2023, with expectations of reaching US$207 billion by 2026. The negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the industry bargaining group are crucial in determining the future protection and rights of performers in the video game industry.
This ongoing dispute highlights the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry and the challenges faced by performers in an increasingly digital world. As technology continues to advance, it is essential for industry stakeholders to address the concerns raised by performers and work towards solutions that protect their rights and ensure fair compensation.
