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Fact check: What is the current state of the SAF-AFTRA video game voice actor strike?
1. Summary of the results
The SAG-AFTRA video game voice actor strike is currently ongoing as of February 2025 [1]. The strike began on July 26, 2024, following 18 months of unsuccessful negotiations [2], and involves approximately 2,600 voice actors and motion capture artists [1]. The strike was authorized in September 2023 with an overwhelming 98.32% member support [1].
Key developments include:
- Over 80 games signed interim agreements by September 2024 [1]
- California passed AI protection bills on September 17, 2024 [1]
- The most recent in-person talks occurred on October 23, 2024 [1]
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
The strike's impact on the gaming industry has been significant and measurable:
- Games like Hideo Kojima's OD and Physint have faced delays [1]
- League of Legends and Destiny 2 have had to modify their content due to the strike [1]
The core issues are more complex than just compensation:
- The strike primarily focuses on AI worker protections, specifically regarding digital replicas and generative AI performance creation [3]
- SAG-AFTRA rejected proposals containing loopholes that would potentially negate meaningful protections for performers [2]
- The union seeks protections for both voice and motion capture performers [3]
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The question itself doesn't contain misinformation, but it's important to note the competing interests:
- Game companies benefit from minimal AI restrictions and lower compensation requirements, which explains their initial resistance to comprehensive protections [3]
- Performers seek protection against unauthorized AI replication of their voices and likenesses, concerned about job security in the video game industry [1]
- California legislators have already taken a stance by passing AI protection bills [1], potentially influencing the ongoing negotiations
The situation remains active and complex, with both sides continuing negotiations while the industry adapts to the strike's impact on game development and content delivery.