A strike against the video game industry has become increasingly more possible following recent events. It was announced that SAG-AFTRA members voted yes to authorize a strike against 10 of the major video game companies including  Insomniac, Disney, Warner Bros., Epic Games, Activision, and Electronic Arts (EA). According to Deadline, 34,687 union members voted 98.32% in favor of the decision.  

SAG-AFTRA members have approved a strike against the video game industry with 98.32% voting Yes

Companies included are Insomniac, Disney, WB, Epic Games, Activision, and EA

This does not mean that they will go on strike. The next bargaining session is scheduled for this week pic.twitter.com/N0EHYeUkDq

— Culture Crave 🍿 (@CultureCrave) September 26, 2023

Considering the ongoing writers and acting strikes in Hollywood, it’s unsurprising that SAG-AFTRA see the video game industry as it’s next target. Workers in both industries have echoed similar concerns around the impact of A.I. and toxic working conditions plaguing the space.

Negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the various big video games companies had broke down following the union’s Interactive Media Agreement rendered a stalemate. In a statement SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland noted the lack of interest those companies had in engaging in the discussion of critical issues.

“After five rounds of bargaining, it has become abundantly clear that the video game companies aren’t willing to meaningfully engage on the critical issues: compensation undercut by inflation, unregulated use of AI and safety,” said Crabtree-Ireland. “I remain hopeful that we will be able to reach an agreement that meets members’ needs, but our members are done being exploited, and if these corporations aren’t willing to offer a fair deal, our next stop will be the picket lines.”

SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher spoke boldly the union’s next steps and determination find the right agreement.

“It’s time for the video game companies to stop playing games and get serious about reaching an agreement on this contract,” said Drescher. “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.”

A representative of the video game companies gave out a statement, stating that they took want fair contracts that “reflects the important contributions” of union in the industry.

“…We are negotiating in good faith and hope to reach a mutually beneficial deal as soon as possible.” They concluded.

All in all, a strike against the game industry depends on the future talks between the union and companies, which begin on Tuesday. If they continue to break down, now that voted overwhelming for strike authorization, a strike could likely follow.