Major Video Game Companies Face Impending Strike Over Performers' Demands

A strike against 10 major video game companies has been authorized through a vote by SAG-AFTRA members. A staggering 98.32% were in favor of the strike, the last of which took place in 2016-2017 over 183 days. This means that a strike will take place if negotiations fail to produce those demands.

The 10 companies facing a possible strike are: Activision Productions Inc., Blindlight LLC, Disney Character Voices Inc., Electronic Arts Productions Inc., Epic Games, Inc., Formosa Interactive LLC, Insomniac Games Inc., Take 2 Productions Inc., VoiceWorks Productions Inc., and WB Games Inc.

"It's time for the video game companies to stop playing games and get serious about reaching an agreement on this contract. The result of this vote shows our membership understands the existential nature of these negotiations, and that the time is now for these companies - which are making billions of dollars and paying their CEOs lavishly - to give our performers an agreement that keeps performing in video games as a viable career," said SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher.

Negotiations will resume today.

"After five rounds of bargaining, it has become abundantly clear that the video game companies aren't willing to meaningfully engage on the critical issues: compensation undercut by inflation, unregulated use of AI and safety. I remain hopeful that we will be able to reach an agreement that meets members' needs, but our members are done being exploited, and if these corporations aren't willing to offer a fair deal, our next stop will be the picket lines," said SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland. 

A spokesperson for the video game companies, Audrey Cooling, said, "We all want a fair contract that reflects the important contributions of SAG-AFTRA-represented performers in an industry that delivers world-class entertainment to billions of players around the world. We are negotiating in good faith and hope to reach a mutually beneficial deal as soon as possible."

The impending strike serves as a stark reminder of the evolving landscape within this entertainment sector. Video games have not only become a billion-dollar industry but also a vital form of entertainment for countless individuals worldwide. The performers behind these digital worlds are demanding recognition and equitable treatment for their contributions, highlighting the industry's responsibility to foster a sustainable and fair environment. The outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications for both the gaming community, emphasizing the pressing need for a resolution that values the artistic talent that brings these virtual realms to life.