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GTA 6, the much-desired next installment of the famous Rockstar Games franchise, is generating palpable anticipation among fans around the world. However, the shadow of the SAG-AFTRA strike, the performing artists’ union, hangs over this ambitious project. This strike, which aims to defend the rights and working conditions of actors and voice-overs, raises questions: will it really slow down or disrupt the development of this highly anticipated game? Let’s analyze the implications of this delicate situation for the future of the most anticipated video game of the decade.
The SAG-AFTRA strike and its impacts on video game studios
The video game actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA, recently announced a strike major to demand better working conditions and protection against AI. This strike affects industry giants such as Activision, Electronic Arts, Insomniac Games, WB Games, and Take-Two Interactive.
However, the presence of Take Two on this list has worried many players, given that the publisher is responsible for Grand Theft Auto 6, one of the most anticipated games of recent years and set for a colossal launch in 2025.
Why is GTA 6 exempt from the strike?
Luckily for fans, GTA 6 has been confirmed to be exempt of this strike. According to a spokesperson for the developers and publishers involved in the strike, GTA 6 will not be affected as long as its development begins before September 2023. This means that players can continue to look forward to the release. launch of GTA 6 without fear of delay due to this strike.
Risks for future games
Despite GTA 6’s exemption, other games could be impacted if the strike continues. Titles like Fortnite And Apex Legends, very popular in live-service, risk being disrupted if the strike continues beyond two months. Studios could be forced to postpone projects or even temporarily employ replacements to meet production deadlines.
Precedents and possible duration of the strike
SAG-AFTRA’s last major strike, which took place in 2016, lasted almost a year. The union then obtained more than transparency in the roles, residue and an increased protection for the actors. Given that current negotiations with publishers have been failing since October 2022, it is possible that this strike will also last a long time.
Uncertain future for games in development
It remains to be seen how long this strike will last. Live-service titles, such as those previously mentioned, could very well be delayed or disrupted depending on the outcome of negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the video game publishers. The goal is for stakeholders to obtain the necessary protections against AI practices without significantly impacting players.
| GTA 6 | Exempt |
| Fortnite | Potential impact if prolonged strike |
| Apex Legends | Potential impact if prolonged strike |
| Marvel’s Wolverine | Not impacted |
| Working conditions | In negotiation |
| Protection against AI | Main demand |
| Expected duration of strike | Unknown |
| Latest SAG-AFTRA strike | 2016-2017 |
| Failed negotiations | Since October 2022 |
- GTA 6: Exempt from strike.
- Fortnite: Potential impact if the strike continues.
- Protection against AI: Main demand of the strikers.
- Negotiations: In failure since October 2022.
- Expected duration : Unknown, long history.
FAQs
Q: Why is GTA 6 exempt from the SAG-AFTRA strike?
A: GTA 6 is exempt because its development began before September 2023, the reference date for the exemption.
Q: What other games could be affected by the strike?
A: Games like Fortnite and Apex Legends could be affected if the strike lasts more than two months.
Q: What is SAG-AFTRA’s main demand in this strike?
A: SAG-AFTRA calls for better working conditions and increased protection against AI practices.
Q: How long did the last SAG-AFTRA strike last?
A: SAG-AFTRA’s last strike, in 2016, lasted almost a year.
Q: Which companies are affected by the strike?
A: Affected companies include Activision, Electronic Arts, Insomniac Games, WB Games and Take-Two Interactive.
