The recent vote by SAG-AFTRA members has ushered in a new era for video game performers, with an overwhelming 95.04 percent endorsing the newly negotiated contract with video game companies. This agreement not only promises a significant 15.17 percent pay increase but also includes additional raises of three percent scheduled for November in 2025, 2026, and 2027. Most notably, it introduces vital protections against the encroaching influence of artificial intelligence in the industry.
Leadership and Solidarity
SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher expressed her admiration for the leadership demonstrated by Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Chair Sarah Elmaleh, who navigated a complex landscape of negotiations over the past three years. “This deal achieves important progress around A.I. protections, and progress is the name of the game!” Drescher stated, acknowledging the solidarity shown by the video game performer community during the strike, which played a crucial role in securing these gains.
Chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland echoed this sentiment, extending gratitude to the performers and their allies for their resilience throughout the 11-month strike. “The sacrifices made during this period were not in vain,” he noted. “Now that the agreement is ratified, video game performers will benefit from meaningful gains and essential A.I. protections, which we will continue to build upon as the technology evolves.”
The strike, which commenced in July 2024, marked a pivotal moment for the union, highlighting the need for updated protections in an industry increasingly influenced by technological advancements. As the dust settles on this negotiation cycle, the focus will shift to the implementation of these new terms and the ongoing dialogue surrounding the future of artificial intelligence in video gaming.
