Negotiations Between SAG-AFTRA and Game Developers End Without Accord

Planned negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and ten major game companies have concluded without reaching a mutually acceptable agreement regarding the rights and working conditions of voice actors and performers. The union has been engaged in discussions with prominent industry players such as Activision, Electronic Arts, Epic Games, Take-Two, Insomniac, and Warner Bros to establish a new Interactive Media Agreement, as the previous one was set to expire last year. Although the expiration deadline was extended to allow for continued talks, a consensus has yet to be reached. In a joint statement to GamesIndustry.biz, SAG-AFTRA and video game producers announced, "Scheduled negotiations for the Interactive Media Agreement have concluded, and no agreement was reached. The current agreement will remain in effect as the parties make a final push to reach a deal." This development comes on the heels of a strike authorization vote among the union's 160,000 members, with a significant 98% voting in favor of potential strike action. However, it is essential to note that authorizing a strike does not necessarily mean it will occur. The union is advocating for games companies to agree to several key provisions, including wage increases that reflect inflation, mandatory rest periods for on-camera performers, the presence of set medics during stunt work, and safeguards against the unregulated use of AI in voice acting. Currently, SAG-AFTRA is also involved in a similar strike against the TV and film industry, which commenced in July.