Riot Games has distanced itself from allegations made by the SAG-AFTRA union regarding unfair labor practices tied to the production company Formosa Interactive, which handles sound for League of Legends. SAG-AFTRA announced a strike against the game, alleging that Formosa attempted to transfer work to a shell company and hire non-union talent during an active strike. Riot Games clarified that since the game became a union project, they have only engaged with union performers and are not involved in the complaints outlined in SAG-AFTRA's press release. Formosa Interactive also rejected the allegations, defending its practices and confirming its commitment to ethical labor standards.

What does the SAG-AFTRA strike against League of Legends mean for the game?

The SAG-AFTRA strike against League of Legends primarily affects the production aspect tied to Formosa Interactive. It highlights ongoing labor issues in the gaming industry, particularly concerning fair treatment and rights for voice actors. However, Riot Games has clarified that League of Legends itself faces no direct implications regarding these labor disputes.

League of Legends, developed by Riot Games, is a highly popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that has been a staple of the esports scene since its release in 2009. With a large and dedicated player base, the game has also expanded into various media forms, including animated series like Arcane. The ongoing labor disputes highlight broader issues within the industry, reflecting challenges faced by developers and performers in adapting to new technologies, including the use of AI in voice acting.