Video Game Strike FAQs

• SAG-AFTRA is striking this contract so that members working in interactive media (video games) can continue earning a living doing the job that they love. Our members’ work and likenesses are being exploited by artificial intelligence, and video game companies have refused to plainly affirm, in clear and enforceable language, that they will protect all performers covered by this contract in their A.I. language.

• For the Interactive Media Agreement (video game contract), SAG-AFTRA bargains collectively with the following companies: Activision Productions Inc., Blindlight LLC, Disney Character Voices Inc., Electronic Arts Productions Inc., Formosa Interactive LLC, Insomniac Games Inc., Llama Productions LLC, Take 2 Productions Inc., and WB Games Inc.
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• With the exception of games signed to the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement or an Interim Interactive Media Agreement, the strike applies to all video game companies signed to the Interactive Media Agreement, regardless of whether or not they are members of the convenience bargaining group. That said, because some companies have games that cannot be struck due to certain contract terms, it is easier to think about the strike in terms of struck games as opposed to struck companies.
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• To find out whether a game is struck, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Production ID and/or Code Name into the search function. A Production ID is the unique number assigned to each video game project by the union. Because code names may change or may not be unique to a single game, you should confirm the Production ID for purposes of whether you can work on the game without violating the strike order. The Production ID should be available through your agent or representative, the studio, producer and/or casting director. If you are unable to find a Production ID through those sources, you can also reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.
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• If the search shows that the game is either struck or non-union, performers should withhold all covered services for that game per the Strike Notice and Order. If you have further questions about the status of a game, please reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• To find out whether a game is struck, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Production ID and/or Code Name into the search function. A Production ID is the unique number assigned to each video game project by the union. Because code names may change or may not be unique to a single game, you should confirm the Production ID for purposes of whether you can work on the game without violating the strike order. The Production ID should be available through your agent or representative, the studio, producer and/or casting director. If you are unable to find a Production ID through those sources, you can also reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.
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• If the search shows that the game is either struck or non-union, performers should withhold all covered services for that game per the Strike Notice and Order. If you have further questions about the status of a game, please reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Yes. Games signed to an Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Agreement or Interim Interactive Localization Agreement are not struck, and we strongly encourage and celebrate our members working games signed to these contracts. When you look up a game’s status at sagaftra.org/videogamestrike, the search function will let you know if the game is signed to the Interim or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Agreement.
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• Certain games that are produced by struck companies are not currently being struck because the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement are still in effect for those games. The search function will also let you know if the game you are looking up is one of these games. PLEASE NOTE: Although members will not be disciplined for working these games, they may still choose to stand in solidarity with their fellow members by refusing to cross a picket line for these games, and their employer is contractually prohibited from discriminating against them for this choice. If you have been engaged under a daily contract for one of these games, you can choose to show solidarity with your fellow union members by not signing new contracts with the game.

• There are certain games that are not currently being struck because the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement are still in effect for those games. When you look up a game’s status at sagaftra.org/videogamestrike, the search function will let you know if the game you are looking up is a non-struck game for a struck company. This does not mean that we have no disputes with the companies producing these games. We do! PLEASE NOTE: Although members will not be disciplined for working these games, they may still elect to stand in solidarity with their fellow members by refusing to cross a picket line for them, and their employer is contractually prohibited from discriminating against them for this choice.
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• If you have been engaged under a daily contract for one of these games, you can choose to show solidarity with your fellow union members by not signing new contracts with the game.

One of our strengths as a union is that during a strike of one contract, our members can work most other contracts, such as:

• SAG-AFTRA-approved Interim Interactive Media Agreements for video games.
• SAG-AFTRA-approved Interim Interactive Localization Agreement
• Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreements.
• Dubbing covered by the following agreements: Netflix, Spanish Language, Negotiated Employer Agreement, and the SAG-AFTRA Dubbing Agreements.
• Audiobooks.
• TV/Theatrical Agreement.
• Commercials: Television, Radio & Digital Media (including ADR/Looping/Trailers).
• Television & New Media Animation.
• Influencer-Generated Sponsored Content Agreement.
• Network TV Code (including promo work).
• Sound Recordings.
• Music Videos.
• Corporate/Educational & Non-Broadcast Programs.
• Station Contracts & Broadcast News.
• Short Project Agreement.
• Micro Budget Agreement.
• Student Film Agreement.
• Independent New Media Agreement.
• Independent Podcast Agreement & Micro-Monetized Podcast Agreement.
• Certain separately negotiated basic cable agreements.

• Localization for foreign video games covered under the Interactive Localization Agreement (ILA) is struck work. However, an Interim Interactive Localization Agreement is available to video game companies who agree to our protective A.I. and other terms. You can view the Interim ILA HERE.

• A strike will not interrupt accrued benefits. Health coverage will continue without interruption as long as you have met the minimum requirements for coverage. If you have questions regarding your current benefits, please contact SAG-AFTRA Health Plan Participant Services at (800) 777-4013 to discuss your specific eligibility scenario. For more information on coverage, please click HERE.

• We understand this is an area of great concern for members and one of the reasons the decision to strike has not been made lightly. Unfortunately, your health insurance will not be extended due to a strike, however there are a number of alternative coverage and assistance options available to you.
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• If you do not meet the minimum earnings or days requirement for continued earned eligibility, you will receive a notice advising you of your options, including the Health Plan's COBRA program and conversion options. If you are totally disabled, you may be entitled to an extension of coverage.
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• If you lose your current Active Plan coverage, you may be eligible for the Extended Career COBRA benefit. For 2024, if you have at least $20,810 in covered earnings and at least 12 Extended Career Credits, you may be eligible for a reduced premium of 20% of the COBRA premium. For more information, go to sagaftraplans.org/health/premiums and scroll to "Extended Career COBRA Premiums.”
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• Additionally, residents of New York State may be eligible for the COBRA Premium Assistance Program for Entertainment Industry Employees - please click the link for more information. You can also seek private insurance coverage through a state health insurance exchange such as Covered California. Please go to healthcare.gov for more information.
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• Additional resources are available from the following organizations:
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• Union Plus 
• Union Plus offers grants and benefits to support members during a strike.
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• Entertainment Community Fund (formerly Actors Fund)
• The Entertainment Community Fund (formerly Actors Fund) is a national human services organization that helps performing arts and entertainment professionals in need with programs and services.
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• Motion Picture & Television Fund (MPTF)
• MPTF supports working and retired members of the entertainment community with a safety net of health and social services, including temporary financial assistance, case management, and residential living.
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• The Artists Health Insurance Resource Center (AHIRC)
• AHIRC provides comprehensive, unbiased, one-on-one health insurance counseling and enrollment services and educational seminars to members of the entertainment and performing arts community in the eastern region (including Illinois and Minnesota).
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• Samuel J. Friedman Health Center
• The Samuel J. Friedman Health Center offers primary care, specialty care and preventive care in New York City, in partnership with Mount Sinai Doctors.

• Yes

• The signatory producer for League of Legends is Formosa Interactive, LLP. SAG-AFTRA has filed unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board against Formosa, and is striking League of Legends in order for Formosa to remedy those unfair labor practices.
   
• An unfair labor practice is an allegation of a violation of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). The NLRA is the federal law governing unions and which grant performers the right to form or join unions and engage in concerted protected activities, like striking, to improve working conditions.

• The Union contends that Formosa tried to “cancel” one of its struck video games shortly after the start of SAG-AFTRA’s video game strike. When they were told that was not possible, they secretly transferred the game to a shell company and sent out casting notices for “NON-UNION” talent only. SAG-AFTRA contends that these serious actions are egregious violations of core tenets of labor law –that employers cannot interfere with performers’ rights to form or join a union and they cannot discriminate against union performers who already are members of a union. It alleges that the unilateral and surreptitious transfer of union work to a “non-union” shell company is an appalling attempt to evade a strike action and thereby destroy performers’ rights under labor law.

No. You should treat League of Legends the same as any other struck game and should withhold covered services for this game per the Strike Notice and Order.

• This will depend on how they were registered with the union. Enter the production ID for the spinoff into the search function to determine its status. And you can email videogamestrike@sagaftra.org if you believe any result is in error or have further questions.

• The strike rules can be found in the Strike Notice and Order sent to members on July 25, 2024, and available HERE. These rules describe members’ obligations during a work stoppage. More detail regarding how the rules apply to specific circumstances can be found in these FAQs, and you are bound to follow any rules or interpretations set forth in these FAQs. Rules may be amended and interpretations may evolve over time, so be sure to regularly check the FAQs if you have specific questions.

• We support and encourage you to work under any contracts that are not struck, including games that are signed to the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement or the Interim Interactive Localization Agreement.

• Under Global Rule One, you cannot provide covered services (including voice, likeness or movement work) for companies producing video games unless they are signed to a SAG-AFTRA agreement not affected by this strike, such as the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement or the Interim Interactive Localization Agreement. This means you cannot work non-union games.
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• Global Rule One, which binds all members, states:
• “No member shall render any services or make an agreement to perform services for any employer who has not executed a basic minimum agreement with the union, which is in full force and effect, in any jurisdiction in which there is a SAG-AFTRA national collective bargaining agreement in place. This provision applies worldwide.”

• No, you may not audition, interview, test, talk, negotiate, etc. for struck work during the strike, even if that work is planned or anticipated to take place after the strike is resolved. Please direct your agent or representative not to talk, negotiate or arrange auditions, interviews and tests for struck work on your behalf during the strike.

• Regardless of when you are notified about it or when you auditioned for it, you cannot accept or perform covered services on a struck game. You can look up a game’s status at sagaftra.org/videogamestrike.

• Please reach out to videogamestrike@sagaftra.org with questions relating to foreign video game production. Localization for foreign video games covered under the Interactive Localization Agreement (ILA) is struck work however an Interim Interactive Localization Agreement will be available to companies who are willing to agree to our revised terms, which include A.I. protections and wage increases.

• While we encourage working for games signed to the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement or the Interim Interactive Localization Agreement, there should be no deal negotiations for covered services on struck games after a strike begins. Members must immediately notify their agent and/or other representatives to discontinue conducting negotiations on their behalf, regardless of when the negotiations began.

• No, you must not enter into any contracts for struck work during the strike, even if the work would occur post-strike.

• Federal labor law protects performers from being retaliated against for participating in concerted union activity, such as a strike. SAG-AFTRA is very aware of performer concerns about retaliation when striking and picketing, and does everything it can to protect performers from this happening. If you believe that you have been retaliated against for striking or picketing, please contact videogamestrike@sagaftra.org to discuss the situation.

• Any member that disregards the Strike Notice and Order and/or SAG-AFTRA Membership Rules including Rule 1(A), shall be subject to discipline consistent with the SAG-AFTRA Constitution. Penalties for such violations may include censure, reprimand, fine, suspension and/or expulsion.

• Please complete this form and the union will investigate the matter. Please note that all member discipline investigations are confidential.

No. Under Global Rule One, you cannot work for companies producing video games unless they are signed to one of our SAG-AFTRA agreements not affected by this strike, such as the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement or the Interim Interactive Localization Agreement.

Global Rule One, which binds all members at all times, states:
“No member shall render any services or make an agreement to perform services for any employer who has not executed a basic minimum agreement with the union, which is in full force and effect, in any jurisdiction in which there is a SAG-AFTRA national collective bargaining agreement in place. This provision applies worldwide.”

• When you work a non-union game, you do not have any A.I. protections automatically built into your contract, nor do you have the backing of a union and its lawyers to enforce contract terms, so you run the risk that a company will take your voice, likeness, and movements without limitations or compensation to you for the rest of your career. They also are not required to take critical safety precautions, so there is greater risk of injury for movement performers. If you are a SAG-AFTRA member, you also will be subject to discipline consistent with the SAG-AFTRA Constitution. Penalties for such violations may include censure, reprimand, fine, suspension and/or expulsion.

• To find out whether a game is struck, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Code Name into the search function. Note that non-union video games will not have a Production ID for you to include. If you have questions about the search results, please reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org to confirm status.
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• Members cannot work struck games and members cannot work non-union games. If you are working on a game that shows up as struck or non-union, you should immediately cease doing covered work and contact SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org to confirm the Production ID and game status.

• Organizing your game may sound challenging, but union organizers can help you navigate this conversation. SAG-AFTRA has many options for producers that fit every budget, making a union project more feasible than ever. SAG-AFTRA agreements contain many protections for performers that non-union productions lack. Please reach out to a union organizer who can help you navigate this conversation by filling out this form or emailing videogamestrike@sagaftra.org. You can also learn more about the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Agreement HERE.

• Yes, the Interactive Localization Agreement and the Interactive Low Budget Agreement are covered by the strike order. SAG-AFTRA is offering an Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement and a Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, which offers coverage options at every budget level. Find out more about the available Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement and Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement and how to sign your game to an appropriate agreement HERE.
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• We strongly encourage our members to work on video games signed to the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement.

• Yes! There are agreements that fit all budgets. Find out more about the available agreements and how to sign your game to an appropriate agreement HERE.
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• We strongly encourage our members to work on video games signed to the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement.

• SAG-AFTRA wants to keep its members working. The intent of a strike is to achieve better working conditions for our members. We are always willing to work with companies that are happy to comply with the terms we are bargaining for in our collective bargaining agreement. Companies willing to sign our Interim Interactive Media Agreement and Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement understand and reinforce that SAG-AFTRA’s terms are fair and reasonable, including wages, A.I. protections, inclusion of performance capture actors and member safety. An Interim International Localization Agreement is also available.
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• We strongly encourage our members to work on video games signed to the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement.

• The Interim Interactive Agreement includes the protective terms our members need to have a sustainable career as video game performers. 
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1. - Transparency, consent and compensation if an employer wants to use generative A.I. tools.
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3. - A wage increase of 7% effective upon execution and 7.64% increase effective November 7, 2024.
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5. - Safety for performance capture: five minutes of rest per hour, no stunts on self-tapes, and a qualified set medic when doing stunts or hazardous performance. 
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7. - Codifying the union's position that performance capture is covered.

1. - Transparency, consent and compensation if an employer wants to use generative A.I. tools.
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3. - A wage increase of 7% effective upon execution and 7.64% increase effective November 7, 2024.
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5. - Session fee includes integration, use in downloadable content (“DLC”), and reuse without any additional compensation.

• The National Board and the IMA Negotiating Committee have discretion with respect to rules/conditions governing video game productions during the strike, and they have the ability to adjust strike rules as necessary. If you have any questions, contact videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• If you worked under a SAG-AFTRA contract for a game that is now struck, then you would be in violation of strike rules if you promote that game in any of the ways listed on the Strike Order after the union has called a video game strike.
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• While the rules do not prohibit others from promoting struck games, SAG-AFTRA still needs your support! Please consider using your platform to help inform your audience as to why we’re on strike and what’s at stake! You can also help amplify our messages online using hashtags #LevelUpTheContract, #VideoGameStrike and #SagAftraStrong. Click HERE for a look at other ways you can engage in this fight.
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• Have another idea of how you want to show your support? Reach out to us at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• The strike rules only prohibit promotion by those who worked under a SAG-AFTRA contract for a game that is now struck. To find out whether a game is struck, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Production ID and/or Code Name into the search function. A Production ID is the unique number assigned to each video game project by the union. Because code names may change or may not be unique to a single game, you should confirm the Production ID for purposes of whether you can work on the game without violating the strike order. The Production ID should be available through your agent or representative, the studio, producer and/or casting director. If you are unable to find a Production ID through those sources, you can also reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.
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• For everyone else, we appreciate your support in amplifying our messages relating to the strike wherever possible. You can help amplify our messages online using #LevelUpTheContract, #VideoGameStrike and #SagAftraStrong and talking about it wherever you have a platform. Make sure you are staying up to date on the strike by reading our emails, checking our website and following us on social media.
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• Click HERE for a look at how you can engage in this fight. Have another idea of how you want to show your support? Reach out to us at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Given the close proximity of the calling of the strike with San Diego Comic-Con (“SDCC”), the strike rules relating to promotion and publicity services do not apply to promotion and publicity services provided at SDCC 2024.

• This depends on what you are doing. You may not appear on an award show to promote a struck project (whether nominated or not) or accept an award for performance in a struck game. You should honor any contractual commitments to work on an award show, such as in the capacity of hosting or performing in a skit. If you have any questions relating to this distinction, please contact videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Yes, on your own behalf. Speaking from your own experience on issues like generative A.I. and safety is helpful and illuminating. Familiarize yourself with the key issues by reading our emails and website, sagaftra.org/videogamestrike. Please make sure it is clear that you are speaking about your personal opinions and experiences and not on behalf of the union. Email videogamestrike@sagaftra.org for talking points.

• We have dedicated FAQs for what is allowed at Conventions, Personal Appearances, and Signings, for Streamers and Influencers, and for Podcasts. If there is anything else you need to know, you can email us at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• It depends.
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• You cannot participate in convention panels, personal appearances, or signings that are sponsored by and/or relate to struck games in which you were engaged as a SAG-AFTRA performer. This includes finished games produced by struck companies. Any company signed to the IMA, regardless of whether or not it is a member of the bargaining group, is a struck company.
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• You may participate in convention panels, appearances, or signings in ways that don’t promote struck projects or struck companies and that are not sponsored by or connected to struck companies. For example, a panel with other video game voice actors is fine as long as it is not described as a cast panel and is not about specific games or companies.
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• Additionally, you may participate in appearances, conventions and fan expos for work under other contracts, such as Theatrical, TV or New Media animation. Anime, which is under a separate Dubbing Agreement, is another area that is also okay.
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• We encourage you to show your support at appearances by wearing SAG-AFTRA swag or utilizing our digital tools.
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• If you have any questions relating to this distinction, please contact videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Games signed to an Interim Interactive Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Agreement are not struck and we strongly encourage and celebrate our members attending conventions on behalf of the games signed to these contracts.
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• There also are non-struck games produced by struck companies. PLEASE NOTE: Although members will not be disciplined for working these games, they may still choose to stand in solidarity with their fellow members by refusing to promote these games at conventions (unless you are required to do so by your contract).
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• If a game is not signed to one of the above-noted agreements or is not a non-struck game, that means it’s either struck or non-union. Either way, you should not be promoting those games at conventions. While it is not a violation of the strike order to speak generally about your career and the various roles you’ve played, you cannot do the following:
• Make personal appearances that are sponsored by and/or relating to specific struck games;
• Be part of a cast appearance or signing sponsored by and/or relating to specific struck games;
• Participate in a convention panel sponsored by and/or relating to specific struck games.
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• To find out whether a game is struck, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Production ID and/or Code Name into the search function. A Production ID is the unique number assigned to each video game project by the union. Because code names may change or may not be unique to a single game, you should confirm the Production ID for purposes of whether you can work on the game without violating the strike order. The Production ID should be available through your agent or representative, the studio, producer and/or casting director.
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• If the search shows that the game is either struck or non-union, performers should withhold all covered services for those games per the Strike Notice and Order. If you have further questions about the status of a game, or you are unable to confirm the Production ID, please reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• In many cases, it will be obvious. Often, but not always, these appearances will be at the request of the company that produced and/or distributed the game and/or might be part of your contractual obligations to the company. For example, a panel identified as featuring the cast of a struck game or a signing at a struck company’s booth at a convention is clearly related to those companies. An event like BlizzCon is run by Activision-Blizzard, so a panel there would be connected to the company or the game.
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• If you have any questions relating to this distinction or about a specific event, please contact videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Appearances, panels, fan meet-and-greets, etc. are all okay, as long as they are not sponsored by and/or relating to struck games for which you were engaged as a SAG-AFTRA performer. You and/or your representative should work with the event organizers ahead of time to ensure that they understand the guidelines and that you can participate comfortably.
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• Following are some general guidelines:
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• Autographs: As long as a struck company is not providing branded/character items for you to distribute and you are not providing branded photographs or other promotional items, you are free to sign autographs depicting your character. “Branded” photographs and items typically are ones that have the game or company’s name and/or logo. Commissioned artwork is acceptable.
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• Panels/Q&As: You and/or your representative should work with the event organizer and/or panel moderators ahead of time to discuss what kinds of questions you are comfortable with during the strike. You should avoid discussing characters you played on struck work or your work for struck companies. A panel or Q&A could be a good opportunity to explain the importance of the strike to the future of the industry.
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• Cast Appearances: You should not participate in any cast appearances or cast signings sponsored by and/or relating to struck games in which you were engaged as a SAG-AFTRA performer. A panel with other video game voice actors is fine as long as it is not identified as a cast panel and is not about specific games or companies.
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• Non-struck work: The guidelines above only relate to struck work. If you worked on projects that are not struck, such as television animation or anime dubbing, you can freely discuss those projects and sign autographs relating to those characters.
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• You and/or your representatives should work with the event organizers ahead of time to determine if they will be allowing questions from fans and how they will be handled. Ultimately, it is up to your discretion and level of comfort how you respond.
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• If it is a question about a game, there are many ways to redirect the question to avoid answering it directly. For example, if a fan asks, “What was it like playing the voice of Commander Jones, the rugged soldier in the Battle Game franchise,” you can answer the question more generally. In this case, you might simply answer by talking about what it is like to play a character who is a soldier and to do battle sounds and efforts or to do combat-related performance capture. You can also use that as an opportunity to explain the importance of the issues we are fighting for in this strike, such as protections against losing your career to unregulated A.I.

• Of course, you are always free to share your personal stories about why the issues involved in these negotiations are important to you. If you do share your stories, please be sure it is clear that you are speaking from your own perspective and not on behalf of the union or the membership generally. And we encourage you to wear SAG-AFTRA gear.

• The same guidelines for appearances, conventions and fan expos also apply to these events. You cannot participate if they are sponsored and/or relating to specific struck games in which you were engaged as a SAG-AFTRA performer, and you cannot discuss struck games.

• Listing your credits for identification and information purposes is okay, as long as the focus is on you and it is not promoting the struck game or company. Including logos of a struck game or company would be seen as promotional.

• We are not asking members to breach pre-existing contracts with parties other than the struck companies.

• As long as the video does not promote struck work, this is okay.

• If you worked under a SAG-AFTRA contract for a game that is now struck, then you would be in violation of strike rules if you promote that game. Therefore, while you are free to do Cameo work during the strike, you should not discuss or do character work as a character you played in a struck game.

• Stay tuned to these FAQs, emails from SAG-AFTRA, and our social media for picketing details and other in-person solidarity actions.

• Please refer to our digital toolkit and keep a lookout for new actions. We have branded content for social media, as well as Twitch streamers and YouTube personalities. If you are a streamer or content-creator and have an idea for ways you can support our performers, we would love to hear from you. Please reach out to influencer@sagaftra.org.

• Federal labor law protects performers from being retaliated against for participating in concerted union activity, such as a strike. SAG-AFTRA is very aware of performer concerns about retaliation when striking and picketing, and does everything it can to protect performers from this happening. If you believe that you have been retaliated against for striking or picketing, please contact videogamestrike@sagaftra.org to discuss the situation.

• There are lots of ways you can show solidarity, even if you are working on a non-struck game produced by a struck company.
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• Here’s how you can help:
• If a struck company offers you a session for a non-struck game, you may choose not to sign a new daily contract with that struck company.
• Do not cross a picket line! You may choose to stand in solidarity with your fellow members by refusing to cross a picket line set up for this game, and your employer may not discriminate against you for this choice.
• Use our digital tools to show your solidarity, and read our talking points to amplify the issues video game performers are fighting for.
• If able, promote games signed to the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement and Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, which include A.I. protections, fair wages and safety requirements.
• Encourage producers to sign, and educate members about our Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement and Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreements.
• Have another idea of how you can support? Reach out to us at videogame@sagaftra.org and let’s make it happen!

• You can help amplify our messages online using #LevelUpTheContract, #VideoGameStrike and #SagAftraStrong.
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• Make sure you are staying up to date with weekly digital strike actions on our website.
• Read about the strike on our website and in our emails, and talk about it wherever you have a platform, including streams.
• Check the status of your games at sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and make sure they are signed to our Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreements. Celebrate those games!
• Join us! Current SAG-AFTRA members can become a strike captain and/or union steward. Reach out to videogamestrike@sagaftra.org to be connected with a union organizer.
• Take action using the tools available HERE.
• Have another idea of how you want to show your support? Reach out to us at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.
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• Non-members include performers who are pre-members, SAG-AFTRA-eligible performers who have not yet joined the union, and those who have resigned their membership from the union.

• Performers across platforms are facing the same existential threat from artificial intelligence, compensation that is not adequate to sustain a career, and safety concerns in the workplace.
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• When this strike results in achieving protections for those who work under our video game contracts, it sets a baseline for performers on all platforms, including for those of you who are currently non-members. Hold the line in solidarity with us by refusing to work on struck games during the strike, so that one day you can join the union and benefit from all of its protections, including core protections from exploitation of your movement, voice, and likeness without your consent.

• Robust A.I. protections
• Guaranteed wage minimums.
• Safety provisions.
• Contract enforcement
• Access to a pension fund.
• Access to a health care fund.
• Collective bargaining.
• Strong institutional support for when things go wrong.

• Performing covered work for struck games jeopardizes your future membership in the union. SAG-AFTRA's National Board takes seriously any action undermining the effectiveness of a strike, especially a non-member performing covered work for struck games during a strike. SAG-AFTRA's Constitution provides that “[t]he National Board has discretion to deny membership to any applicant if, in its judgment, their admission to membership would not be in the best interests of the union.”

• The union has numerous contracts that can fit every budget. Please see our Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Media Agreement and Interim Interactive Localization Agreement. Reach out to a union organizer who can help you navigate this conversation by filling out this form or emailing videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Please visit our website for more information on how to become a SAG-AFTRA member.

• SAG-AFTRA members are professional performers whose union protections allow them to sustain careers in this business. That translates to experience, consistency, efficiency and availability. But if their jobs are threatened by A.I. or they can’t earn a living due to stagnant wages, then they will be forced to find new opportunities outside of video game work. That means your games won’t be as easy to cast, your production schedule won’t be as smooth, and the quality that comes from working with experienced performers will suffer. That is the risk the companies at the bargaining table are taking, but you don’t have to take that risk. Instead, you can sign an Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or our Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement and gain an advantage over your competition.
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• Without a union contract, SAG-AFTRA members are prohibited from working for you. Come talk with us to find a contract that fits your needs. You can contact staff at interactive@sagaftra.org and a business representative will assist you in the signatory process.

The Interim Interactive Agreement includes the protective terms our members need to have a sustainable career as video game performers. 

1. - Transparency, consent and compensation if an employer wants to use generative A.I. tools.
2.  
3. - A wage increase of 7% effective upon execution and 7.64% increase effective November 7, 2024.
4.  
5. - Safety for performance capture: five minutes of rest per hour, no stunts on self-tapes, and a qualified set medic when doing stunts or hazardous performance. 
6.  
7. - Codifying the union's position that performance capture is covered.

1. - Transparency, consent and compensation if an employer wants to use generative A.I. tools.
2.  
3. - A wage increase of 7% effective upon execution and 7.64% increase effective November 7, 2024.
4.  
5. - Session fee includes integration, use in downloadable content (“DLC”), and reuse without any additional compensation.

• SAG-AFTRA is offering an Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement and a Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, which together cover games produced at every budget. Find out more about the available video game agreements and how to sign your game to an appropriate agreement HERE.

• You can contact the staff at interactive@sagaftra.org and a business representative will assist you in the signatory process.

• SAG-AFTRA intends for the Interim Interactive Media Agreement to largely be conformed to the final negotiated video game agreement on a going-forward basis once the membership ratifies successor agreements with the companies at the bargaining table.
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• If you have signed the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement for a game project that is budgeted at under $30 million, your terms will not change.
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• The Interim Interactive Localization Agreement is a modified version of the Interim Interactive Agreement to cover localization (dubbing) of video games from a foreign language into English.

• Global Rule One states: No member shall render any services or make an agreement to perform services for any employer who has not executed a basic minimum agreement with the union, which is in full force and effect, in any jurisdiction in which there is a SAG-AFTRA national collective bargaining agreement in place. This provision applies worldwide. Simply put, a SAG-AFTRA member must always work under a union contract around the globe.

• The performers that you see and hear in video games help make the games you love really come to life. Unfortunately, compensation to performers has stagnated in real value due to inflation, the unregulated use of artificial intelligence threatens the careers of professional actors in the video game industry, and members’ physical safety has lacked necessary protective provisions for too long
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• If you love video games and the performers in them, please take a look at our list of ways you can show your support below. 
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• Share what’s going on - whether you’re on Twitch, X, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, etc., please consider letting your audience know why this strike is so important to the performers who bring the games you love to life. Need some talking points? We got you! Just email influencer@sagaftra.org.
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• Include #LevelUptheContract and #VideoGameStrike in your messages of support and solidarity.
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• Check out our digital toolkit HERE
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• Invite one of our video game performers to join your stream or show and use the opportunity to discuss the strike and what’s at stake. Reach out to us at Influencer@sagaftra.org and we can help connect you with a performer who will be a good fit.
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• Have another idea? Reach out to us at Influencer@sagaftra.org and let’s make it happen!

The only situation in which streaming a struck video game would be in violation of our strike order is if you had rendered services as a performer in that struck game. Otherwise, we are not asking you to stop playing/streaming video games. In fact the opposite! Please continue doing what you love, and any support and solidarity would be extremely appreciated!

• If you have specific questions, we are always here to help you navigate. Please reach out to influencer@sagaftra.org
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• - If performers gain A.I. protections, it sets a powerful precedent for all workers in this space, such as animators, artists, writers, QA workers and more.
• - Without A.I. protections, game recording professionals (talent coordinators, casting and performance directors, engineers, PCAP crews, etc.) risk losing entire categories of work.
• - Physical injuries in performance capture cost time and money to the developer. Safety provisions ensure smooth and efficient productions.
• - Workers gain power when they fight together and win, as evidenced by the recent SAG-AFTRA TV/Theatrical, WGA and UAW victories. By standing in solidarity with SAG-AFTRA, you strengthen not only our collective power, but your own.

• You can help amplify our messages online using #LevelUpTheContract, #VideoGameStrike and #SagAftraStrong. Please take a look at how you can engage in this fight, available HERE. Also, check out the games signed to an Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement. We strongly encourage you to promote these games! To find out whether a game is signed to one of these agreements, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Production ID and/or Code Name into the search function. If you have further questions about the status of a game, or you are unable to confirm the Production ID, please reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.
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• Have another idea of how you want to show your support? Reach out to us at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org and let’s make it happen!

• You can call (323) 549-6815 or email interactive@sagaftra.org and a business representative will assist you in the signatory process.
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• We have several options to accommodate productions of all budgets that will allow members to continue to perform in video games during the strike.
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• - The Tiered Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement is a completely new Interactive Media Agreement created specifically to capture new work that often can't be accommodated by our traditional Interactive Media Agreement (IMA). It also raises the budget caps that were in the existing Low Budget Agreement so many more projects will qualify. The total, all-in production budget must not exceed $30 million. To learn more about what developers need to get started, click HERE.
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• - The Interim Interactive Media Agreement consists of the terms of our last offer to the employer bargaining group before we declared a strike. Interim Agreements are a strategic tool that enhances the union’s bargaining leverage and weakens the power of the employer bargaining group in negotiations. Interim Agreements are available to vetted producers that agree to be bound by the terms of the interim agreement.
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• - The Interim Interactive Localization Agreement
• The Interim Interactive Localization agreement is a modification of the Interim IMA for the purpose of dubbing or localizing English language sound tracks to be used in connection with interactive or video game programs initially produced in a language other than English.

• Actors are workers. Like all workers, game performers deserve to make a living under conditions that are safe and humane.
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• Additionally, your favorite performances are brought to life through the artistry of human actors who improvise, tap into personal experiences, and collaborate with writers and directors to create a performance that only they could provide. No two actors are the same, and every performance is unique.
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• Generative A.I. tools threaten to replace these artists with derivative, machine-recycled performance, lacking perspective or surprise. A.I.-generated performances will not carry the originality, pathos or humor of an actual human actor.

• You can help amplify our messages online using #LevelUpTheContract, #VideoGameStrike and #SagAftraStrong. Click HERE for a look at how you can engage in this fight.
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• Have another idea of how you want to show your support? Reach out to us at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Yes! You can continue to work on podcasts during the strike.

• There is one restriction: members may not promote any struck game for which they delivered performance services.

• As someone with a platform and an audience that cares about video games, you can have an incredible impact by helping to inform your audience about why we’re on strike, what’s at stake and how they can support us!
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• SAG-AFTRA is striking this contract in an effort to guarantee that performers working in interactive media can continue to earn a living wage doing a job they love. The performers you see and hear in the games you love help bring those games to life. Unfortunately, compensation to performers has stagnated in real value due to inflation, and unregulated use of artificial intelligence threatens their careers and livelihoods.
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• Click HERE for a look at how you can engage in this fight. You can also help amplify our messages online using #LevelUpTheContract, #VideoGameStrike and #SagAftraStrong. Have another idea of how you want to show your support? Reach out to us at podcastcontracts@sagaftra.org.

• Please reach out to us with any questions at podcastcontracts@sagaftra.org.

• The strike rules can be found in the Strike Notice and Order sent to members on July 25, 2024, and available HERE. These rules describe members’ obligations during a work stoppage. More detail regarding how the rules apply to specific circumstances can be found in these FAQs, and members are bound to follow any rules or interpretations set forth in these FAQs. Rules may be amended and interpretations may evolve over time, so be sure to regularly check the FAQs as you have specific questions.

• The only games that members can work on during the strike are those in the following two categories:
• - Games signed to an Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, and
• - Non-struck games produced by struck companies.
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• To find out a game’s status, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Production ID and/or Code Name into the search function. A Production ID is the unique number assigned to each video game project by the union. Because code names may change or may not be unique to a single game, you should confirm the Production ID for purposes of whether your client can work on the game without violating the strike order. The Production ID should be available through the studio, producer and/or casting director.
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• If the search shows that the game is either struck or non-union, performers should withhold all covered services for that game per the Strike Notice and Order.
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• PLEASE NOTE: With regard to non-struck games, although members will not be disciplined for working these games, they may still choose to stand in solidarity with their fellow members by refusing to cross a picket line for these games, and their employer is contractually prohibited from discriminating against them for this choice.
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• If you have further questions about the status of a game, or you are unable to confirm the Production ID, please reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Any company that is signed to the SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Agreement, regardless of whether or not they are in the bargaining group, is a struck company. That said, because some companies have games that cannot be struck due to certain contract terms, it is easier to think about the strike in terms of struck games as opposed to struck companies.
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• To find out whether a game is struck, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Production ID and/or Code Name into the search function. A Production ID is the unique number assigned to each video game project by the union. Because code names may change or may not be unique to a single game, you should confirm the Production ID for purposes of whether you can work on the game without violating the strike order. The Production ID should be available through the studio, producer and/or casting director.
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• If the search shows that the game is either struck or non-union, performers should withhold all covered services for that game per the Strike Notice and Order. If you have further questions about the status of a game, or you are unable to confirm the Production ID, please reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Yes. Games signed to an Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement are not struck, and we strongly encourage and celebrate our members working games signed to these contracts. When you look up a game’s status at sagaftra.org/videogamestrike, the search function will let you know if the game is cleared for work, i.e., signed to the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement.
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• There are certain non-struck games produced by struck companies. The search function will also let you know if the game you are looking up is one of these games. PLEASE NOTE: Although members will not be disciplined for working these games, your client may still choose to stand in solidarity with their fellow members by refusing to cross a picket line for these games, and their employer is contractually prohibited from discriminating against them for this choice.
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• If you have further questions about the status of a game, or you are unable to confirm the Production ID, please reach out to SAG-AFTRA at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• We support and encourage work under any contracts that are not struck, including games that are signed to the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement and Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement.
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• Under Global Rule One, members cannot work for companies producing video games unless they are signed to one of our collective bargaining agreements not affected by this strike, such as the Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement.
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• Global Rule One, which binds all members, states:
• “No member shall render any services or make an agreement to perform services for any employer who has not executed a basic minimum agreement with the union, which is in full force and effect, in any jurisdiction in which there is a SAG-AFTRA national collective bargaining agreement in place. This provision applies worldwide.”

• To find out a game’s status, go to sagaftra.org/videogamestrike and enter the Production ID and/or Code Name into the search function.
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• If you have any questions, contact videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• One of our strengths as a union is that our members during a strike of one contract can work most other contracts, such as:
• - SAG-AFTRA-approved Interim Interactive Media Agreements for video games.
• - SAG-AFTRA-approved Interim Interactive Localization Agreement
• - Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Agreements
• - Dubbing covered by the following agreements: Netflix, Spanish Language, Negotiated Employer Agreement, and the SAG-AFTRA Dubbing Agreements.
• - Audiobooks.
• - TV/Theatrical Agreement.
• - Commercials: Television, Radio & Digital Media.
• - Television & New Media Animation.
• - Influencer-Generated Sponsored Content Agreement.
• - Television programs covered by the Network TV Code.
• - Sound Recordings Agreement (music).
• - Music Videos.
• - Corporate/Educational & Non-Broadcast Programs.
• - Station Contracts & Broadcast News.
• - Short Project Agreement.
• - Micro Budget Agreement.
• - Student Film Agreement.
• - Independent New Media Agreement.
• - Independent Podcast Agreement & Micro-Monetized Podcast Agreement.
• - Certain separately negotiated basic cable agreements.
• - SAG-AFTRA Network Code.

• No, members may not audition, interview, test, meet to discuss work, negotiate, etc. for struck work during the strike, even if that work is planned or anticipated to take place after the strike is resolved.

• Regardless of when they were notified about it or when they auditioned for it, members cannot accept or perform struck work from a struck company.

• While we encourage working for games signed to our Interim Interactive Media Agreement, Interim Interactive Localization Agreement or Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, there should be no deal negotiations for covered services on struck games after a strike begins.

• Please reach out to videogamestrike@sagaftra.org with questions relating to foreign video game production.

• An employer is not obligated to rehire performers.

• Federal labor law protects performers from being retaliated against for participating in concerted union activity, such as a strike. SAG-AFTRA is very aware of performer concerns about retaliation when striking and picketing, and does everything it can to protect performers from this happening. If you believe that your client has been retaliated against for striking or picketing, please contact videogamestrike@sagaftra.org to discuss the situation.

• Any member that disregards the Strike Notice and Order and/or SAG-AFTRA Membership Rules, including Rule 1(A), shall be subject to discipline consistent with the SAG-AFTRA Constitution. Penalties for such violations may include censure, reprimand, fine, suspension and/or expulsion.

• Any member that disregards the Strike Notice and Order and/or SAG-AFTRA Membership Rules, including Rule 1(A), shall be subject to discipline consistent with the SAG-AFTRA Constitution. Penalties for such violations may include censure, reprimand, fine, suspension and/or expulsion.

• To ensure compliance with the rule to withhold all covered services, members who are also employed in non-performing capacities should consult with SAG-AFTRA by emailing videogamestrike@sagaftra.org in advance of performing any work on a struck production. To the extent prohibited under applicable law, SAG-AFTRA will not discipline members for purely non-covered work done in other non-performing capacities. Note that your client may choose to stand in solidarity with striking members by not providing any services which they are not already contractually obligated to perform.

• The National Board and the IMA (video game) Negotiating Committee have discretion with respect to rules/conditions governing the strike, and they have the ability to adjust strike rules as necessary

• No. If your client worked on a struck video game, they should not promote that game. You cannot promote their involvement in the game either.

• You and your clients can help amplify our messages online using #LevelUpTheContract, #VideoGameStrike and #SagAftraStrong. Click HERE for a look at how you can engage in this fight. Have another idea of how you want to show your support? Reach out to us at videogamestrike@sagaftra.org.

• Yes, on their own personal behalf. We recommend they familiarize themselves with key issues by reading our emails and website, sagaftra.org/videogamestrike. Please make sure it is clear that your client is speaking about their personal opinions and experiences and not on behalf of the union. Email videogamestrike@sagaftra.org for key messages and talking points.

• A strike will not interrupt accrued benefits. Health coverage will continue without interruption as long as your client has met the minimum requirements for coverage. If they have questions regarding their current benefits, they should contact:
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• SAG-AFTRA Health Plan Participant Services at (800) 777-4013 to discuss their specific eligibility scenario. For more information on coverage, please click HERE.

• We understand this is an area of great concern for members and one of the reasons the decision to strike has not been made lightly. Unfortunately, your client’s health insurance will not be extended due to a strike, however there are a number of alternative coverage and assistance options available to them.
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• If your client does not meet the minimum earnings or days requirement for continued earned eligibility, they will receive a notice advising them of their options, including the Health Plan's COBRA program and conversion options. If they are totally disabled, they may be entitled to an extension of coverage.
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• If a client loses their current Active Plan coverage, they may be eligible for the Extended Career COBRA benefit. For 2024, if they have at least $20,810 in covered earnings and at least 12 Extended Career Credits, they may be eligible for a reduced premium of 20% of the COBRA premium. For more information, go to sagaftraplans.org/health/premiums and scroll to "Extended Career COBRA Premiums.”
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• Additionally, residents of New York State may be eligible for the COBRA Premium Assistance Program for Entertainment Industry Employees - please click the link for more information. Your client can also seek private insurance coverage through a state health insurance exchange such as Covered California. Please go to healthcare.gov for more information.
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• Additional resources are available from the following organizations:
• Union Plus
• Union Plus offers grants and benefits to support members during a strike.
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• Entertainment Community Fund (formerly Actors Fund)
• The Entertainment Community Fund (formerly Actors Fund) is a national human services organization that helps performing arts and entertainment professionals in need with programs and services.
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• Motion Picture & Television Fund (MPTF)
• MPTF supports working and retired members of the entertainment community with a safety net of health and social services, including temporary financial assistance, case management, and residential living.
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• The Artists Health Insurance Resource Center (AHIRC)
• AHIRC provides comprehensive, unbiased, one-on-one health insurance counseling and enrollment services and educational seminars to members of the entertainment and performing arts community in the eastern region (including Illinois and Minnesota).
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• Samuel J. Friedman Health Center
• The Samuel J. Friedman Health Center offers primary care, specialty care and preventive care in New York City, in partnership with Mount Sinai Doctors.
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• Yes