Video game actors want better compensation

The actors who bring to life your favorite heroes and villains are considering taking a step back from the mic to re-negotiate their contracts.

SAG-AFTRA, the union representing voice actors for video games is pushing for more regulation and clearer definition in job titles.

Some of the issues in particular are bonus pay for physically demanding roles where an actor may have to scream or yell for an extended period of time, according to the unions negotiation website. They are also looking to have stunt co-ordination and supervision for roles that include CGI motion capture work.

Union members are also asking for a share of profits should a game sell over 2 million copies or downloads.

“It’s where most games start to turn a profit, and it’s where all the union talent is found,” says the union’s website.

Members have until Oct. 5 to make a decision. If the votes in favor to strike reach 75 per cent, all union members will be forced to stop working on video games until a new contract is re-negotiated.

Some prominent voices in the industry have taken to social media to garner support for the union. Should the strike take place, they want fans and users to understand why they should receive better compensation for their work.

Jennifer Hale showed her support on Twitter.

While David Hayter used the trending hashtags of the topic.

Wil Weaton posted on his blog about the controversy.

“I voted to authorize a strike because our employers in the games industry refuse to negotiate with us at all about some very, very important issues surrounding our working conditions,” he wrote.

The union reps and industry have met twice this year already to negotiate, once in February and again in June, but neither side could agree on a resolution.