Video Game Actors Poised to Ratify New Contract Amid AI Concerns

July 8, 2025 - 20:18

Video game performers are on the verge of concluding an 11-month strike as they prepare to vote on a new contract that promises significant improvements in their working conditions. The proposed agreement includes pay raises, enhanced control over the use of their likenesses, and critical protections against the misuse of artificial intelligence in gaming.

Sarah Elmaleh, a notable voice actor and chair of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists' interactive branch negotiating committee, expressed relief at the potential resolution, stating that the agreement feels like “diamond amounts of pressure suddenly lifted.”

Union members have until Wednesday at 5 p.m. Pacific to cast their votes on whether to ratify this tentative agreement. If approved, this contract could set a new precedent for the treatment of performers in the video game industry, especially concerning the evolving role of AI technologies. The outcome of this vote will be closely watched by industry insiders and advocates for performer rights.