SAG-AFTRA, the American actors' union, announced that its members have overwhelmingly ratified the "2025 Video Game Agreement" with a 95.04% approval rate. This vote officially concludes the nearly year-long strike, bringing an end to long-standing disputes over AI regulations and compensation.
The new agreement's primary focus is the establishment of "safety rails" for the application of AI technology. It explicitly mandates that explicit consent and disclosure are required for the use of a performer's AI digital replica. Furthermore, performers retain the right to pause authorization for the generation of new content during a strike. This critical development directly addresses the union's previous serious concerns that earlier proposals could lead to the misuse of AI.
Beyond the AI clauses, the contract also includes increased compensation, health insurance, and pension contributions for voice actors and motion-capture performers. SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher stated that the agreement achieved critical progress in AI protection, hailing it as a victory for all performers who stood firm.
Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland added that the union extended its highest respect to all game performers who participated in the 11-month struggle, noting that the agreement laid a crucial foundation for future technological developments.
Audrey Cooling, a spokesperson representing game producers, also viewed the agreement positively, stating that it was a historic contract that not only increased wages but also set new industry standards for AI protection and performer safety.
The UK actors' union Equity has also called for negotiations with the local UK game industry to commence, leveraging this opportunity to secure similar protections for British performers, including AI clauses and fair compensation.