“It has been nearly a year since SAG-AFTRA’s video game contract, the Interactive Media Agreement, was extended beyond the original expiration date as we negotiated with the companies for critical terms SAG-AFTRA members need,” the guild said in a statement. “Unfortunately, throughout the negotiations, the companies have failed to address those needs.
“Work under the video game contract “includes a great deal of ‘performance capture,’ where trained professionals, many of whom are stunt performers, provide digitally captured performances used to give expressive movement to video game characters,” the guild said. “Unregulated use of AI poses an enormous threat to these artists’ professions.”
The union is also asking for on-camera performers to have the same five-minutes-per-hour rest period that off-camera performers are entitled to. The guild also wants a set medic present when stunts or hazardous work is performed, just like on a film or television set; prohibitions against stunts on self-taped auditions; and vocal stress protections.