Is a video game industry strike looming?

When one window opens, another console shuts off. While the Writers Guild of America strike is nearing its end, SAG-AFTRA has doubled down on their own battle against studios by adding focus to the video game industry. This week, a nearly unanimous vote chose to authorize a strike if necessary.

As per a statement from SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher, “It’s time for the video game companies to stop playing games and get serious about reaching an agreement on this contract…The result of this vote shows our membership understands the existential nature of these negotiations, and that the time is now for these companies — which are making billions of dollars and paying their CEOs lavishly — to give our performers an agreement that keeps performing in video games as a viable career.”

It should be noted that this does not mean that the video game industry is officially on strike. Instead, this means that failed negotiations connected to the Interactive Media Agreement could potentially result in a strike. There was immense support behind this, as 98.32% of those who voted did so in favor of authorization.

As per the official SAG-AFTRA website, “The Interactive Media Agreement covers interactive or video game programs where the viewer or user can manipulate, affect, or otherwise alter, on a real time basis, the sequence or presentation of the program.” Those covered under this include voicework performers, motion capture performers, singers, dancers, and more.

The SAG-AFTRA strike has been making headlines since July but it’s pretty rare that those within the video game industry get attention over their fights. The most recent strike was back in 2016-2017 when voice actors went on strike against major gaming companies like Activision, Electronic Arts and more. Although none of the companies claimed that any of their upcoming games had been delayed, there’s really no telling how a potential strike this time around could turn out. And if we have to wait another 10 years for GTA VI…

How would a strike within the video game industry affect you? Do you see this happening? Give us your take in the comments section below!