On July 26, video game actors went on strike due to concerns over generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) in game development.
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-Aftra’s chief negotiator, highlighted that the union is worried about a very specific use of AI which involves replicating performances by humans.
The union fears that AI might use performers’ voices and likenesses without proper compensation or control.
Impact on Game Development
The strike might not immediately impact games already in development before September 2023.
This includes big releases like Grand Theft Auto 6, which are unlikely to be affected in the short term.
However, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland predicts that live gaming titles, such as Fortnite and Apex Legends, could face delays.
The true effects on game development might not become clear until later.
Actors’ Concerns About AI
SAG-Aftra’s primary concern is how AI might replicate human performances, including voices and movements, without fair compensation. He said,
The union is particularly worried about stunt performers, whose motion-captured movements might be used without adequate protection.
Views from the Industry
Actor Abubakar Salim, known for his role in Assassin’s Creed: Origins, expresses concerns about AI replacing human voices.
He believes that audiences would hate content produced entirely by AI, arguing that such content lacks the human connection essential for quality.
Salim points out that AI-generated voices might eventually need to be replaced with actual actors, leading to higher costs and less effective results.
The Union’s Stand
SAG-Aftra is seeking a fair and ethical deal to protect its members’ rights amidst rapid advancements in AI technology.
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland emphasizes the need for guardrails to ensure that performers’ likenesses are not used without consent.
He argues that video game companies are becoming more and more isolated and should adopt fair practices similar to those in other industries that have already addressed these issues.