Real Women of Gaming

We have all been experiencing hot labor summer and we’re moving into cozy labor fall, possibly adding more striking companies to the list from the Interactive (video game) industry. That’s right, if you’re a content creator or streamer and you make video game content this will affect you. On September 1st SAG-AFTRA elected unanimously to have a strike vote. What does this mean? Simply put, their contract for video games is up and they’re at a stalemate with negotiations so they’re deciding whether or not to strike. These companies, just like the AMPTP, are not negotiating in good faith. This is completely different from the film and tv strike already happening; this is for video game performers, many of whom do motion capture and stunts for their work.They are asking for many of the same protections as the already striking members of the WGA & SAG-AFTRA are asking for; protections from AI and reasonable wage increases due to inflation along with safety guidelines.

The question many of you are probably asking is; how does this affect me? Well, did you know that as a content creator/influencer you could be eligible for SAG-AFTRA? There are requirements such as; you need to be a solo performer, be incorporated or an LLC, and have a contract with a brand deal; all of which are possible if that is something you want. I’ve been working in the film industry for over 20 yrs. Trust me being in a union IS what you want. Every decision I make I have the thought of, will this hurt me getting into a union? It’s never really been an issue until this year when the WGA went on strike. I say this because if they do decide to strike some of your favorite games that you may currently stream or center your content around could be a part of the list and if you want to make a career of this, which is possible, you NEED to not stream struck work. Now is the time to prepare for a possible strike; don’t be a SCAB.

I know a lot of content creators won’t or simply don’t care b/c this is a hobby for them. That is perfectly fine, those are not the people that I’m talking to in this article. If you wish to make a career out of this and join a union eventually, what you do during these strikes will matter for your future eligibility. I will have more details as this unfolds but for now you are safe to continue streaming your favorite games. The list of companies for the potential strike can be found here. These are AAA companies on this list which means AAA games.

RWOG & GSI support strikers. We will not be participating in struck work and we encourage you to do the same. Happy gaming!

Voting begins Sept 5 and will conclude on Sept 25. If you are already a member they will have a meeting on Sept 7 & Sept 12 from 6-8pm PT/9-11pm ET to give more details.