142: Winning Together with Sarah Elmaleh (SAG-AFTRA Video Game Strike)
Sep 1, 2024
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Sarah Elmaleh, Chair of the SAG-AFTRA Interactive Negotiating Committee, leads the charge for video game performers in the ongoing strike. She emphasizes the importance of securing protections against the rise of AI in gaming. The discussion highlights the power of collective action and grassroots organizing within the industry. Elmaleh also touches on the critical role of voice actors in creating immersive experiences and stresses the need for fair representation and wages. This fight is vital for the future of video games.
The ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike emphasizes the urgent need for basic protections for performers against the rise of generative A.I.
Collective action among performers showcases the power of community solidarity to advocate for better working conditions in the gaming industry.
The impact of artificial intelligence on voice acting highlights the necessity for unions to demand transparency and fair compensation to safeguard artistry.
Deep dives
The Importance of Labor in Game Development
Labor issues play a critical role in the game development industry, as highlighted by the ongoing strike led by actors associated with SAG-AFTRA. This guild aims to secure better working conditions and protections for performers, especially against the rise of artificial intelligence and automation that threaten their livelihoods. The discussion revealed the challenges performers face regarding compensation, safety provisions, and working hours, particularly during high-intensity sessions. Performers organize and advocate for their rights, asserting that healthy working conditions are essential not only for their welfare but also for the integrity and art of game development.
Strike Actions and Community Solidarity
The episode emphasizes the power of community and solidarity among performers during strike actions, leveraging emotional and practical support to enhance their efforts. Participants shared their experiences of vibrant picketing events that foster camaraderie and a sense of collective purpose, showcasing the impact of public demonstrations on the morale of their cause. Real stories from fellow performers highlighted the human aspect of labor struggles, reminding listeners that behind every voice and performance are individual lives affected by industry decisions. This solidarity not only strengthens their positions in negotiations but also showcases their commitment to fighting for a more equitable industry.
Navigating AI and the Future of Performance
The conversation delved into the implications of artificial intelligence on the future of voice acting in games, examining the risks posed by the unregulated testing of AI-generated performances. Concern arises that as companies increasingly depend on AI to mimic human voice and performance aspects, the unique value of bespoke human artistry may diminish. This could lead to a distorted market where lower-quality AI-driven products might replace professional performances, affecting both revenue for performers and the overall game experience. Hence, union demands for transparency, consent, and fair compensation are crucial to safeguarding actors' rights and preserving the integrity of their craft.
The Role of Unions in Sustainable Industry Practices
Unions serve as a vital force in ensuring sustainable practices within the gaming industry, advocating for fair treatment and safety for all types of workers. The podcast discusses how the collective bargaining power of unions can create better conditions and a stronger industry that values talent and creativity. By addressing systemic issues such as excessive hours and unsafe working conditions, unions help to maintain a thriving labor force that can produce high-quality games. The commitment to ongoing labor advocacy illustrates a broader movement towards accountability within entertainment, pushing against the exploitation often seen in profit-driven sectors.
The Future Challenges and Opportunities in Game Performance
Looking ahead, the guild members discussed the challenges and opportunities that lie in balancing traditional performances with the advent of new technologies like AI. While there is fear that AI may eventually replicate the nuanced aspects of live performances, there is hope that the unique human element will always hold value in storytelling through games. Additionally, an increase in grassroots organizing within the industry signifies emerging leadership that can adapt to technological changes while fighting for performer rights. This blend of vigilance and innovation is expected to shape the future landscape of game acting, ensuring that performers remain integral to the development of interactive media.
We’re joined by our own Sarah Elmaleh, who is currently leading the SAG-AFTRA video-game actors’ strike as Chair of the union's Interactive Negotiating Committee. In this rare topical emergency episode, we discuss the urgency of securing basic protections for performers in the age of so-called “generative A.I.,” the power of collective action, and why this fight has existential stakes for video games as a commercial medium. Happy Labor Day!