SAG-AFTRA Video Game Voice Actors' Strike Concludes with Historic Agreement

After a year of rigorous negotiations and industrial action, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has formally concluded its strike against major video game companies. The resolution, marked by the ratification of the 2025 Interactive Media Agreement, signifies a monumental victory for voice actors and other performers in the interactive entertainment sector. This comprehensive agreement addresses critical concerns ranging from fair compensation to the burgeoning impact of artificial intelligence, charting a new course for labor relations within the dynamic gaming industry. The successful ratification underscores the power of collective bargaining in securing substantial improvements for creative professionals.

Landmark Gains for Performers

The newly ratified 2025 Interactive Media Agreement delivers substantial enhancements for video game performers, addressing key demands that fueled the year-long industrial action. A cornerstone of the new pact is an immediate 15.17% increase in compensation, with further annual 3% increments scheduled from November 2025 through 2027. This progressive compensation structure aims to ensure performers receive fair remuneration for their artistic contributions within an ever-expanding industry. Beyond direct earnings, the agreement also bolsters health and retirement benefits, with a 0.5% increase to the AFTRA Retirement Fund taking effect immediately, followed by another 0.5% increase in October. These financial improvements reflect a concerted effort to provide greater economic stability and long-term security for voice actors and other interactive media talent. The union expressed profound gratitude to its dedicated negotiating committee, emphasizing their pivotal role in achieving these significant strides.

Perhaps the most groundbreaking aspect of the new agreement lies in its pioneering Artificial Intelligence (AI) protections. This was a primary driver for the strike, as performers sought safeguards against the unauthorized use of their digital replicas. The 2025 Interactive Media Agreement establishes foundational “guardrails” around AI technology, mandating informed consent for various AI applications. Crucially, it empowers performers with the ability to revoke or suspend informed consent for the use of their digital replicas during future labor disputes, providing an essential layer of protection against exploitation. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s national executive director and chief negotiator, highlighted these AI protections as a vital achievement, acknowledging that the union will continue to adapt and build upon these safeguards as AI technology evolves. The participating video game companies, including industry giants like Activision Productions, Electronic Arts, Epic Games, and others, also voiced their approval of the agreement, signaling a shared commitment to fostering a fair and progressive working environment.