God of War’s Cody Barlog’s Impassioned Speech on the SAG-AFTRA Strikes Couldn’t Make It Clearer Who’s Side He’s On

After more than a year and a half of unresolved negotiations, the SAG-AFTRA strike for video game actors officially began on July 26. Cory Barlog, the director of God of War, has voiced unwavering support for the striking performers. 

The primary sticking point in the discussions has been protections against the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI). Just think about it: why are some video game characters so beloved and acclaimed? Aside from their actions, it is the actors who deliver the performance that truly make it iconic.

God of War’s Cody Barlog Is One of Many in Support of the SAG-AFTRA Strike

The strike has gotten support from all corners of the gaming community, including prominent figures like Cory Barlog, the creative mind behind God of War. Barlog took to X/Twitter to express his solidarity with the striking performers.

solidarity with all my performer friends as they head into a strike to expand their much needed protections. having brilliant actors embody our characters, working with human beings that bring with them a unique perspective gained from their own lived human experience, is so… pic.twitter.com/imYMXirhUe

— golrab of the frost (@corybarlog) July 26, 2024

He highlighted the irreplaceable value that human actors bring to game characters, asserting that their unique perspectives and experiences are what make these characters memorable long after the credits roll.

The strike affects major gaming companies like Activision, EA, and WB Games, among others. These companies have yet to agree to the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement, which includes critical AI protections.

Despite progress in other areas, such as pay increases and mandatory breaks, the union’s demands for AI safeguards have met resistance.

This Strike Will No Doubt Have Long Term Implications

The strike has already impacted numerous video games in production, with SAG-AFTRA calling for a halt to all union performance work until a fair agreement is reached. However, some studios have signed interim agreements that meet the union’s demands, allowing work on those projects to continue.

Really hoping for you guys to break some ground here that will get long lasting protections for your workers in place so you can do what you love without all this crap in the way.
Rooting for you all, give ’em heck!

— Kitty-Bit Games & Cosplay~ (@kitty_bit_games) July 25, 2024

The strike is not just about AI protections; it’s a pivotal moment in the fight for workers’ rights within the gaming industry. The outcome of this strike will likely have far-reaching implications, potentially setting new standards for how AI technologies are integrated into creative fields.

As gamers and industry professionals rally behind the performers, the call for ethical AI usage and fair treatment becomes louder and more urgent. In the meantime, gamers are encouraged to continue enjoying their favorite titles.

SAG-AFTRA has clarified that the strike does not ask fans to stop playing games but rather to support the performers. The union urges everyone to use social media to spread awareness and solidarity, ensuring that the performers’ voices are heard loud and clear.

What do you think these strikes will result in? Let us know in the comments!