SAG-AFTRA members have voted nearly unanimously to suspend video game work for games currently in development. And with an astounding 98.32% vote in favour, we could see strike action commenced against video companies in due course.
This strike action would coincide with the ongoing strike action, which has seen many Film and TV studios grind to a halt, with disputes over working conditions and various other issues.
What Does the SAG-AFTRA Strike Mean for Upcoming Games?
It has been heavily rumoured that The Last of Us 3 is currently in development. And this was further teased by a recent post by actress Shannon Woodward on Instagram.
With it, she stated that she was in the studio with a “top secret video game” followed by 3 emojis. Many theorised that this was a clear nod to the third instalment of the franchise and would see her reprise her role of Dina.
Related: SAG-AFTRA Vote Nearly Unanimously for Gaming Strike
But now that SAG-AFTRA has voted on whether to commence strike action against video game studios, could we see this game now being delayed?
Although there is no official confirmation from developers, Naughty Dog, that the game is in the works, this could be seen by fans as one of the major casualties.
A game that is confirmed to be in development is Marvel’s Wolverine, and Insomniac Games is one company that SAG-AFTRA has been negotiating with in terms of an improved contract.
Read Also: The Last of Us 3 May Have Started Shooting
Negotiations were said to have commenced as far back as October 2022, with the current deal due to expire in November 2023.
President of SAG-AFTRA, Fran Drescher, had the following to say on the issue;
“It’s time for the video game companies to stop playing games and get serious about reaching an agreement on this contract.”
And with potential strike action on the horizon, any unionized actors would be unable to accept contracts offered by video game companies looking to use their voice or likeness for motion capture. Chief Contracts Officer Ray Rodriguez compared the issue in video games to that in other mediums;
“Between the exploitative uses of AI and lagging wages, those who work in video games are facing many of the same issues as those who work in film and television.” – Chief Contracts Officer Ray Rodriguez
Other Video Game Companies that SAG-AFTRA is said to be negotiating with include: Activision Blizzard, EA, Epic Games, and WB Games.
So just how many games could we see development being shut down on and more importantly, how long would studios be willing to let strike action go on for?
At the time of this writing, talks are said to be commencing again today (26 September) and last for a further two days. So it may be that the threat of strike action by SAG-AFTRA could be used as leverage to broker new deals and address the issues raised.
But what are your thoughts on the latest news regarding the SAG-AFTRA strikes? Are you disappointed that some titles may be delayed as a result? Or do you stand in solidarity with those striking on the front line? Get in touch, drop us a comment and let us know your thoughts.
Source: International Business Times
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