**SAG-AFTRA Extends Talks Amid Ongoing Video Game Strike**

**Negotiations Persist Over Unresolved Disputes and AI Concerns**

The strike initiated by SAG-AFTRA against major video game publishers shows no sign of ending soon as contract negotiations have been extended. Despite three days of intensive discussions, the parties failed to reach a consensus on the Interactive Media Agreement. Both sides are expected to announce new dates for further negotiations as soon as they are confirmed.

In a significant development, over 120 video game titles have signed SAG-AFTRA's proposed Interim Media Agreement or the Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Agreement targeted at indie developers. The strike, which has been active since July, continues to impact titles on a game-by-game basis rather than a blanket approach to studios.

Companies involved in the bargaining process include notable industry giants such as Activision Productions, Blindlight, Disney Character Voices, Electronic Arts Productions, Formosa Interactive, Insomniac Games, Llama Productions, Take 2 Productions, and WB Games. The core issue stalling the negotiations revolves around the use of generative AI, specifically in motion and performance capture, which has emerged as a contentious point.

SAG-AFTRA executive director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland has expressed skepticism over the publishers' reasoning for rejecting the proposed AI language. Publishers maintain that motion capture in video games amalgamates various actors' performances, complicating the compensation process. However, Crabtree-Ireland disputes this justification, indicating it is not a sound basis for their refusal.

While the union has not yet called for a holiday season boycott of the gaming companies, Crabtree-Ireland has stated that such an action remains a potential strategy as the strike progresses.