A strike of the actors of the universe of video games is attracting attention. In a serious dispute over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry, is concerned about the possible reproduction of voices such as that of Jennifer Hale by machines. Actors fear that their careers are at risk, and this situation sheds light on the entertainment industry's adaptation to new technologies. Understand why these professionals are fighting to protect their rights and its careers in this battle against the indiscriminate use of AI.
Based on the title and the provided text, here are the 5 key takeaways in Portuguese:
- Video game actors are on strike against the use of AI.
- Jennifer Hale is one of the strike leaders.
- AI can reproduce actors' voices without consent.
- Strike seeks protections and fair compensation for actors.
- Gaming companies are in negotiations with the union.
Actors Strike Against AI in Games
Introduction
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if your voice was used in a game without your consent? That's exactly what's happening in the world of video games, and that's why many actors have decided to go on strike. The threat of artificial intelligence (AI) is putting the work of many voice professionals at risk, and the fight for fair protection and rights is just beginning.
The Current Scenario
Recently, actors in the gaming world decided to stop working in protest against the unauthorized use of their voices through AI technologies. This strike follows in the footsteps of a similar strike that took place last year in Hollywood, where actors and writers also fought against the misuse of AI.
The Voice of Jennifer Hale
Jennifer Hale, one of the industry’s most renowned voice actors, has expressed her concerns about how AI could affect her career. She is known for her iconic roles as Commander Shepard in “Mass Effect” and Samus Aran in “Metroid.” For Hale, the threat is clear: “Game companies view our work as a commodity to generate profits, without considering that they are crushing human beings in their blind pursuit of money.”
The Importance of the Strike
The video game actors’ strike is not just a fight for individual rights, but rather a battle to protect an entire industry. AI has the potential to replicate entire voices and performances, which could result in less work for human actors. Hale notes: “They could take all my performances in a game, like Mass Effect, feed it into a machine and generate an entire new game with a completely AI-generated performance.”
The Financial Impact
Despite the gaming industry generating an estimated $189 billion in revenue by 2024, voice actors are paid considerably less than their film and TV counterparts. Hale, a single mother, explains the financial reality: “As voice actors, we don’t get paid like stars. Under what they’re proposing, I wouldn’t get paid at all.”
The Response of Companies
Representatives from major gaming companies like Activision and EA say they are offering meaningful protections against AI abuse. However, many actors believe these offers are not enough. Audrey Cooling, a representative for the companies, said: “Our offer directly addresses SAG-AFTRA’s concerns and includes meaningful AI protections that require consent and fair compensation for all performers.”
The Situation in the United Kingdom
In the UK, the rules on strikes are different. While British actors are supporting their American counterparts, they are not on strike. David Menkin, a British voice actor, has expressed concern that American companies may try to hire British talent to get around the US strike.
The Actors Union
Unity is crucial at this time. John Barclay, assistant general secretary of the UK actors’ union Equity, said he supported his American counterparts: “We stand shoulder to shoulder with SAG-AFTRA in the global fight for fair pay and the protection of our members’ rights, which is urgent as we move forward with the innovation of artificial intelligence.”
Conclusion
The game voice actors’ strike is a reflection of growing concerns about AI across industries. If voice actors can’t get protection now, what will that mean for other industries in the future? Jennifer Hale sums it up well: “I hope they see that we’re all in this together. I don’t understand why they’re willing to destroy us to increase their profits by a few percentage points.”
Relevant Links
To understand more about the impact of AI on different sectors, check out some interesting articles:
These resources can provide broader insights into how AI is transforming various industries and the importance of proper regulations to protect workers.
Common questions
What motivated the actors' strike at the games?
Actors are concerned about AI being used to replicate their voices without consent and fair payment.
Who are the main people involved in the strike?
Jennifer Hale and 2,500 SAG-AFTRA members who work in gaming.
Is the strike only taking place in the United States?
Yes, but there is solidarity from unions like Equity in the UK.
Are there any protections offered by game studios?
Some companies have proposed protections, but stakeholders argue they are not enough.
Why is AI a particular problem for game voice actors?
AI can replicate entire voices and performances, threatening jobs and reducing fair pay for actors.
