Since July 2024, video game voice actors who are part of the SAG-AFTRA union have been on strike due to a major dispute regarding the use of artificial intelligence. Notable voice actor Jennifer Hale, renowned for her work as Commander Shepard in Mass Effect and numerous other roles such as Baldur’s Gate, Metal Gear Solid, Halo, and Overwatch, has weighed in on the ongoing negotiations, explaining why a resolution seems elusive. In an interview with Eurogamer, she stated, “Artificial intelligence is a matter of survival for everyone.

She noted that the effects of AI are far-reaching, which is one reason why the union and video game publishers are carefully considering their negotiation terms.

Over the past few months, Hale has been having conversations with people on various perspectives, and they’ve all been informative. On one hand, some influential individuals in important positions seem to be unaware of the intricacies of production. On the other hand, there are many others who are closely involved in the process. As a result, there’s quite a diverse range of agendas being pursued.

She continued by explaining that certain individuals participating in the negotiations are open to engaging in meaningful discussions aimed at reaching an agreement. However, as Hale pointed out, others, who appear to be representing substantial corporate entities, have shown reluctance to strike a deal due to their focus on safeguarding potential profits in the future.

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In 2016, performers represented by SAG-AFTRA went on a strike that lasted for approximately 18 months. Hale participated in these negotiations as well, and she highlighted a significant distinction between the strike of 2016 and the potential strikes in 2024/2025: during the earlier dispute, both parties were able to have productive side discussions without lawyers being present.

As a gamer putting on my mediator hat for a moment, I’ve gathered that these two parties haven’t been directly communicating until very recently. Each of them can confer with their legal advisors privately, and then the lawyers engage in discussions. The issue here is, without the involved parties having open dialogue, it just means more hours billed by the attorneys.

In essence, Hale characterized the two-strike periods as significantly distinct due to a heightened polarization in the world. This polarization results in individuals residing within “intense information bubbles” or “extreme echo chambers.

An effective negotiation often means everyone involved feels somewhat dissatisfied. It’s crucial to keep in mind that this is the essence of compromise. Our goal isn’t to have things go our way, but rather to safeguard our future,” she explained.

In August 2024, immediately following the commencement of the strike, Hale likewise addressed the urgency behind the struggle against AI.

AI represents a tool available to us all, as Hale explained to Variety. The key point being that AI, similar to a hammer, can be used constructively, such as building a home. However, it can also be misused, causing harm and disrupting our identities.

There’s growing worry among people that as AI technology advances, it may displace jobs traditionally performed by humans. Just recently, Microsoft acknowledged this concern by stating that such advancements could result in job reductions.

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2025-01-09 19:11