Game Publishers Have Too Many “Alarming” AI Loopholes, Says Striking Actors Union

by

Since last July, SAG-AFTRA has been engaged in a strike against video game publishers over various points of contention, such as compensation and the absence of protections for AI. As of now, this eighth month of striking, a resolution seems nowhere in sight. The actors’ union alleges that the stubbornness of the game publishers regarding AI is the reason behind the lack of a deal.

According to Eurogamer’s report, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, chief negotiator at SAG-AFTRA, and Sarah Elmaleh, chair of the Interactive Media Negotiating Committee, have dismissed rumors of a deal being close. They suggested that publishers are trying to create discord among the actors. Although they acknowledged some points have been settled, the publishers’ AI proposals are significantly below the actors’ expectations.

In their recent statement, Crabtree and Elmaleh expressed concern about the final agreement proposed by the negotiating team. They pointed out concerning gaps that could expose our members to potential misuse by AI. Specifically, they mentioned proposals allowing AI to utilize an actor’s entire performance history, regardless of context, without adequate safeguards. Additionally, they highlighted a suggestion that producers aim to employ AI technology to mimic actors’ voices during future labor disputes.

One instance illustrating AI exceeding boundaries is where Neil Newbon shared with Entertainment Weekly that an application designed for creating characters utilized his voice without prior consent. This issue is among the major concerns being addressed in the current dispute.

Newbon remarked, “That undoubtedly crossed a line of privacy.” He added, “The issue with AI is that it’s being misused quite recklessly. Not only for developing characters that should not exist, but also exploiting individuals.

SAG-AFTRA mentioned that it has secured temporary agreements with 160 video game producers (which is an enhancement from 80 in September), and they emphasized these deals as being more financially advantageous than the gaming companies currently on strike. Some actors have expressed concern about the AI threat, viewing it as a potential career-ending issue, and certain games have temporarily replaced actors or are trying to do so with new performers. Until a fresh agreement is struck, popular video game characters may continue to lack voices.

Read More

2025-03-12 20:40