In a strategic move to support its members and foster greater collaboration within the video game industry, SAG-AFTRA has unveiled a groundbreaking Independent Agreement for video game localization. This new agreement aims to streamline the localization process, introduce AI protections, and expand opportunities for skilled voice actors in the sector.

Empowering Performers, Enabling Partnerships

Streamlining Localization with AI Safeguards

The Independent Interactive Localization Agreement represents a significant step forward for SAG-AFTRA's ongoing efforts to protect its members and ensure fair working conditions in the video game industry. This new agreement is a streamlined version of the union's Tiered Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, which specifically addresses the localization of video game projects produced in languages other than English.The key innovation of this agreement lies in its introduction of AI protections. These safeguards are designed to ensure that the use of artificial intelligence in the localization process does not compromise the livelihoods of skilled voice actors. By establishing clear guidelines and parameters for the use of AI, the agreement aims to strike a balance between technological advancements and the preservation of job opportunities for performers.

Expanding Roles and Opportunities

Beyond the AI protections, the Independent Interactive Localization Agreement also introduces expanded session and voiceprint options for both principal and atmospheric roles. This move is intended to provide greater flexibility and opportunities for voice actors working in the video game localization sector.By offering these enhanced terms, SAG-AFTRA hopes to incentivize companies to adopt the union's standards and collaborate with its talented pool of performers. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA's National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, emphasizes the strategic importance of this agreement, stating, "This new agreement is the next step in our strategy to increase opportunities for companies that agree to reasonable A.I. protections."

Embracing Global Collaborations

The Independent Interactive Localization Agreement also recognizes the growing importance of international collaborations in the video game industry. Many beloved games are now reaching the U.S. market after being developed in other countries, and these projects often require highly skilled localizing performers to bring them to life for English-speaking audiences.Sarah Elmaleh, the Chair of SAG-AFTRA's Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee, highlights the significance of this agreement in supporting these global collaborations. "Many brilliant, beloved games come to market in the U.S. from other countries, projects which need highly skilled localizing performers, and those performers absolutely deserve robust, enforceable A.I. protections," she states.The updated terms in the Independent Interactive Localization Agreement aim to create more opportunities for companies to collaborate with U.S. union talent, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between the industry and SAG-AFTRA's skilled performers.

Sustaining Livelihoods and Encouraging Collaboration

As the ongoing strike against the video game industry continues, the introduction of the Independent Interactive Localization Agreement represents a strategic move by SAG-AFTRA to create new avenues for collaboration and employment opportunities for its members.By offering companies a streamlined agreement with AI protections and expanded roles, SAG-AFTRA hopes to incentivize more industry partners to adopt its standards and work with its talented pool of voice actors. This approach not only supports the livelihoods of skilled performers but also encourages a more collaborative and mutually beneficial relationship between the union and the video game industry.As the landscape of video game localization continues to evolve, the Independent Interactive Localization Agreement stands as a testament to SAG-AFTRA's commitment to empowering its members and fostering a more equitable and sustainable industry for all.