How might SAG-AFTRA enhance its contract negotiation process to ensure fairer compensation for voice actors in video games?

Introduction

To enhance SAG-AFTRA's contract negotiation process for fairer compensation of voice actors in video games, we need to analyze the current landscape, identify key pain points, and develop innovative solutions. I'll approach this by examining stakeholders, user segments, pain points, and potential improvements, keeping in mind the unique challenges of the gaming industry and the evolving role of voice actors.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (5 mins)

• Looking at the industry context, I'm thinking about the rapid growth and technological advancements in the gaming sector. Could you provide insights into how the voice acting landscape in gaming has evolved over the past 5 years, particularly in terms of workload and compensation models?

Why it matters: Helps understand if current contracts are keeping pace with industry changes. Expected answer: Increased demand for voice work, but compensation hasn't scaled proportionally. Impact on approach: Would focus on modernizing compensation structures to reflect current industry realities.

• Considering the diverse nature of game projects, I'm curious about the current segmentation of contracts. Can you share how SAG-AFTRA currently differentiates between AAA titles, indie games, and mobile games in their negotiation process?

Why it matters: Determines if a one-size-fits-all approach is being used or if there's room for more nuanced contracts. Expected answer: Limited differentiation, primarily based on studio size rather than project type. Impact on approach: Would explore creating more flexible, project-specific contract templates.

• Given the increasing use of performance capture in games, I'm wondering about the overlap between voice acting and motion capture work. How does SAG-AFTRA currently address compensation for actors performing both voice and motion capture roles?

Why it matters: Identifies potential gaps in current contracts that may not fully value multi-faceted performances. Expected answer: Separate contracts for voice and motion capture, often leading to undervaluation of combined work. Impact on approach: Would focus on developing integrated contracts that recognize the full scope of an actor's contribution.

• Thinking about the long-term revenue generation of successful games, I'm curious about residuals. What's the current structure for residual payments in video game voice acting, and how does it compare to other media like film or television?

Why it matters: Helps identify if voice actors are receiving fair compensation for ongoing game sales and rereleases. Expected answer: Limited or no residual structure for most video game projects. Impact on approach: Would explore implementing a fair residual system adapted to the gaming industry's unique characteristics.