SAG-AFTRA Ends Video Game Strike with New Labor Agreement
After an 11-month strike, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has reached a significant milestone in its negotiations with major video game companies. The union recently announced that over 95% of voting members approved a new labor agreement, marking the end of a prolonged dispute that began in July 2024.
The deal was finalized in early June and represents a major step forward for performers in the gaming industry. This agreement comes after a three-year negotiation period, which started when the previous contract expired in November 2022. The extended timeline highlights the complexity of the issues at hand, particularly those involving artificial intelligence (AI) and fair compensation for performers.
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the national executive director of SAG-AFTRA, expressed gratitude to the union members and allies who endured the challenges of the strike. He emphasized that the agreement will provide meaningful benefits, including important AI protections. “Now that the agreement is ratified, video game performers will be able to enjoy meaningful gains and important A.I. protections,” he said.
During the strike, performance capture and voice actors from major studios such as Activision Productions, Electronic Arts, and Insomniac Games were affected. Other companies like Disney Character Voices, Formosa Interactive, WB Games, Take 2 Productions, Blindlight, and Llama Productions also faced labor action.
The union viewed the strike as a necessary measure to protect performers from exploitation, especially regarding the use of AI in their work. The decision to walk away from negotiations in July 2024 was reportedly influenced by disagreements over AI-related proposals. According to a representative for the employers, the union had agreed to 24 out of 25 proposals before deciding to suspend talks.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the video game companies praised the new agreement, highlighting changes related to wages, AI, and health and safety. “We look forward to building on our industry’s decades-long partnership with the union and continuing to create groundbreaking entertainment experiences for billions of players worldwide,” said Audrey Cooling, the spokesperson.
The new contract includes several key provisions aimed at protecting performers. It requires companies to obtain consent from union members before creating digital replicas of their image or voice and ensures compensation for the time spent creating these representations. During a strike, members can pause their consent, providing additional protection.
Financially, the agreement offers immediate benefits. Upon ratification, all wages will increase by 15.17%, followed by annual increases of 3% for the duration of the contract. Additionally, the deal introduces five-minute rest periods for performers after each hour of work. Employers’ health and retirement contribution rates will also rise from 16.5% to 17.5% by October 2026.
This agreement marks a significant victory for SAG-AFTRA and sets a precedent for future negotiations in the gaming industry. As technology continues to evolve, the union remains committed to advocating for fair treatment and protection of its members.
