A large number of voice actors may be going on strike if a deal isn’t reached between SAG-AFTRA (the union that represents video game voice actors) and companies in the video game industry if a deal isn’t reached by Friday October 21. SAG-AFTRA is pushing for a new deal after what it calls “radical changes in what we are required to do on set and in the recording studio.”
The union will hold a series of meetings today, tomorrow, and Wednesday in a final attempt to reach a deal. Despite over 18 months of negotiations, the union doesn’t seem like a positive outcome will be reached. Stating on their website..
“Despite years of concerted effort and negotiating sessions, video game employers have steadfastly refused to reach a fair deal during our contract negotiations… Based on past experience, we are not confident management is willing to make the changes necessary to bring this contract up to the standards of our other agreements.”
SAG-AFTRA also provided a list of studios that could be affected if a strike takes place. Noting..
“Unless you hear differently from us, effective Oct. 21 at 12:01 a.m., you should be prepared to strike the following video game employers with regard to all games that went into production after Feb. 17, 2015.”
The studios involved are the following..
- Activision Publishing, Inc.
- Blindlight, LLC
- Corps of Discovery Films
- Disney Character Voices, Inc.
- Electronic Arts Productions, Inc.
- Formosa Interactive, LLC
- Insomniac Games, Inc.
- Interactive Associates, Inc.
- Take 2 Interactive Software
- VoiceWorks Productions, Inc.
- WB Games, Inc.
This could cause some problems with development on games by these companies. SAG-AFTRA was quick to note that “not all games or video game employers will be struck” and to check back with them regarding what games could be caught within the strike.
