SAG-AFTRA Boosts Support for Student Devs and Game Jam Creators

SAG-AFTRA has introduced two important agreements to support student developers and game jam participants amidst ongoing negotiations during the video game strike. The Student Interactive Waiver Agreement allows students from accredited institutions to collaborate with union performers on their projects, provided these are recorded in the U.S. and owned by the students. Meanwhile, the Game Jam Waiver Agreement enables developers to work with union artists during game jams, deferring session fees until a revenue-generating stage is reached. This move aims to bolster opportunities for new talent in the gaming industry while highlighting ongoing concerns related to AI use in voice acting.

The new agreements allow student developers to collaborate with union voice artists while fulfilling course requirements and offer a framework for game jam participants to engage with union talent without immediate payment, ensuring support and guidance under union contracts.

SAG-AFTRA, the union representing voice actors and media professionals, has been a key player in advocating for fair labor practices in the gaming industry. The current strike has raised critical concerns about AI's impact on jobs in the gaming sector, where technologies are increasingly threatening traditional performance roles. Games like "Genshin Impact" have already seen controversy due to the strikers affecting voice acting availability. The new agreements reflect a proactive approach toward addressing these challenges for emerging developers.