Game Voice Actors Strike to Shield Jobs from AI

Video game voice actors, represented by SAG-AFTRA, are officially going on strike starting July 26, 2024, at 12:01 am. This decision follows more than 18 months of unsuccessful negotiations with game companies over the regulation of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in their projects. SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher emphasized that the union will not accept a contract that allows companies to exploit AI at the expense of its members. Although the strike will not impact promotions at San Diego Comic Con due to its timing, it marks a significant escalation in the ongoing battle over AI's role in the gaming industry. Companies such as Ubisoft and Square Enix have already incorporated AI tools, sparking heated debates on job security for developers.

Video game voice actors are striking over the use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in projects, as they believe its unregulated use could lead to exploitation and job losses.

Generative artificial intelligence has been a topic of intense debate within the gaming community. Ubisoft, for instance, has introduced a ghostwriting tool to assist in creating dialogue for NPCs, and Square Enix's PlayStation-exclusive "Fomastars" features AI-generated art. Additionally, Activision was reported to have made and sold AI-generated cosmetics in "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3." This rapid adoption of AI technologies is driving the current conflict between game developers and industry workers, with voices on both sides arguing about the future of work and creativity in gaming.