Video game developers from all corners are banding together in an effort to establish unions in response to the challenges posed by automation, particularly generative artificial intelligence, in order to safeguard their jobs.
Game developers, voice actors, and animators are joining forces to protect their roles amidst widespread layoffs and improve their working conditions as AI encroaches on the industry.
The recent agreement reached between SAG-AFTRA, the union representing Hollywood artists and professionals, and record labels to ensure consent and compensation serves as a valuable example for video game developers, with the potential for SAG-AFTRA to extend its coverage to include the gaming sector.
Supporters of AI implementation in the gaming industry hold differing views, citing lower production costs achievable through smaller teams. They argue that AI enables them to accomplish tasks that were previously impossible.
Game developers are actively pursuing unionization as the gaming industry grapples with the impact of AI and explores ways to leverage the technology for its own benefit. Industry giants such as Square Enix and Tencent, the Chinese gaming powerhouse behind popular games like League of Legends and Final Fantasy, are among those seeking to integrate AI tech.
AI is a primary driver of the widespread concerns surrounding automation, as it possesses the ability to replace human workers. Chrissy Fellmeth from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) emphasized the importance of employees having a say in their employment decisions, particularly in light of recent layoffs. She noted that changes imposed by employers often occur without employees’ consent, and solutions are being sought. In an interview at the developers conference, she remarked:
SAG-AFTRA can serve as a unifying force
Members of the gaming industry convened at the Gamers Development Conference held in San Francisco last month to engage in discussions and roundtables aimed at finding the most effective approaches to unionization. The Independent reports that this movement is spearheaded by performers and voice actors who are already represented by SAG-AFTRA in Hollywood. Last year, TV and film studios faced pressure to implement restrictions on artificial intelligence following a 118-day record strike by artists and related media workers.
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, expressed the union’s desire to extend coverage to workers in the video game industry. Should negotiations falter, the union is prepared to initiate another strike. Crabtree-Ireland stated:
Crabtree-Ireland also highlighted the issue of workers being asked to sign agreements relinquishing their rights to voice replication in perpetuity without compensation, which he deemed unfair.
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