SAG-AFTRA Introduces New Independent Agreement for Video Game Localization

Today, SAG-AFTRA announced its introduction of the Independent Interactive Localization Agreement. This agreement, which contains the same streamlined, easy to understand baseline terms as the union’s Tiered Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, covers localization of video game projects produced in a language other than English. In addition to A.I. protections, the new agreement includes expanded session and voiceprint options for both principal and atmospheric roles as compared to the original Localization Agreement. All contract language was based on direct feedback from the community that does this work. 

With over 130 video game projects currently signed to the union’s interim and independent agreements, SAG-AFTRA hopes this new Independent Interactive Localization Agreement will benefit companies who are willing to agree to the union’s terms by allowing them to hire SAG-AFTRA talent. The agreement will also provide employment opportunities to performers who work in video game localization — a process in which an actor replaces the dialogue from a foreign language to English. 

SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland said, “This new agreement is the next step in our strategy to increase opportunities for companies that agree to reasonable A.I. protections. When companies agree to the terms SAG-AFTRA members need to keep their livelihoods sustainable, then those companies can immediately benefit from the incredible work of our performers, while recalcitrant companies’ projects stagnate during the strike.”

Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee Chair Sarah Elmaleh said, “Many brilliant, beloved games come to market in the U.S. from other countries, projects which need highly skilled localizing performers, and those performers absolutely deserve robust, enforceable A.I. protections. Many such companies have already signed Interim Localization Agreements in proud demonstration of their respect for their actors, and we hope that the updated terms in the Independent Interactive Localization Agreement will create even more opportunities for them to collaborate with U.S. union talent.”

The full text of the agreement, a rate sheet, and a Producers Guide are available for review in our digital Production Center. Developers interested in finding out more about the new agreement should contact interactive@sagaftra.org or call (323) 549-6815. 

The SAG-AFTRA strike against all signatories to the Interactive Media Agreement remains in effect, with the exception of games signed to the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, the Interim Interactive Media Agreement and now the Independent Interactive Localization Agreement.

About SAG-AFTRA

SAG-AFTRA represents approximately 160,000 actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, DJs, news writers, news editors, program hosts, puppeteers, recording artists, singers, stunt performers, voiceover artists and other entertainment and media professionals. SAG-AFTRA members are the faces and voices that entertain and inform America and the world. A proud affiliate of the AFL-CIO, SAG-AFTRA has national offices in Los Angeles and New York and local offices nationwide representing members working together to secure the strongest protections for entertainment and media artists into the 21st century and beyond. Visit SAG-AFTRA online at SAGAFTRA.org.