In a pivotal move for the gaming industry, SAG-AFTRA, the American actors' union, has struck a deal with AI voice actor company Replica Studios. This partnership allows voice actors to enter AI voice agreements, licensing their voices for video game projects. SAG-AFTRA promotes these contracts as an ethical step, establishing minimum terms and conditions for interested voice actors to follow and the ability to opt out from future usage. Despite the union's attempt to manage AI's involvement in video game development, it has prompted a negative reaction from many voice actors who feel left in the dark about these agreements. High-profile voice actor Steve Blum is among those expressing shock on social media at the lack of transparency and consensus regarding the deal. The controversial contract terms and lack of available answers to pressing questions regarding voice actors' control over their digital likenesses have sparked significant unease within the community.

How does the SAG-AFTRA and Replica Studios deal affect video game voice actors?

The deal potentially changes the way voice actors participate in video game projects. By permitting the use of AI voices that are licensed by actors, it opens up opportunities for actors to monetize their voice likenesses in new ways, but also raises concerns about future job security, vocal rights control, and the extent of residuals from AI-utilized performances. It also highlights the need for industry standards addressing AI-generated performances and impacts how consumers accept AI as part of their gaming experience.

Replica Studios, established in 2018 and based in Brisbane, Australia, is a pioneer in AI voice technologies, with a portfolio consisting of hundreds of AI voices and a focus on metaverse projects, demonstrated in their demo inspired by "Matrix Awakens." Despite its size, Replica Studios has notably received recognition and support from Epic Games through a grant in 2021, indicating its potential influence and significance in the future of gaming and AI integrations.