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Video game actors speak out after union announces AI voice deal (www.videogameschronicle.com)

submitted 10 months ago by inclementimmigrant@lemmy.world to c/games@lemmy.world

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According to SAG AFTRA, the deal will “enable Replica to engage SAG-AFTRA members under a fair, ethical agreement to safely create and license a digital replica of their voice. Licensed voices can be used in video game development and other interactive media projects from pre-production to final release.”

The deal reportedly includes minimum terms and the requirement for performers’ consent to use their voice for AI.

However, several prominent video game voice actors were quick to respond on X, specifically to a portion of the statement which claims the deal was approved by “affected members of the union’s voiceover performer community.”

Apex Legends voice actor Erika Ishii wrote: “Approved by… WHO exactly?? Was any one of the ‘affected members’ who signed off on this a working voice actor?”

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[-] Pistcow@lemm.ee 71 points 10 months ago

Even the recognized ones don't get paid well. Weird that SAG would sign off on this so easily when SAG actors and writers striked for months with AI being a big part of the issue.

[-] Stamets@lemmy.world 61 points 10 months ago

Because voice actors are not considered real actors by SAG-AFTRA. Despite the fact that doing voice over work is typically far more grueling than being in front of a camera. I've never met a VOA who wasn't looked down on by other SAG members. Even by fucking extras. "You just stand in a booth and read lines."

[-] Sanctus@lemmy.world 38 points 10 months ago

Guarantee none of them have experienced being on your 10th take in the booth, with the previous line fed to you by the Audio Engineer through your cans, and the next line is whatever comes next alphabetically. Its just as valid as any other form of acting. People on a high horse because of their job is the most asinine shit. Its all work.

[-] Stamets@lemmy.world 16 points 10 months ago

It's why I love actors who've done voice over work. Like most of the Star Trek cast has in one form or another, whether thats for Star Trek Online or another game entirely. All of them saying that it was mind numbing work and it drained them but that they now have enormous respect for people who do that.

While most people look at Critical Role and just go "oh it's easy!" as if you aren't spending 4 hours doing exertion noises for climbing fucking stairs.

[-] Pistcow@lemm.ee 3 points 10 months ago* (last edited 10 months ago)

Question, what do conventional actors fall under when they voice for something like a Disney or Pixar movie? What would be the protections from using Seinfield's voice if he did a new Bee movie? Or are they protected by SAG Actor and its just the nerd VOs that are fucked?

Couldn't imagine an A-lister ever voicing a AAA game if they fell under those rules.