SAG-AFTRA is not pleased with Epic Games’ approach to developing AI Darth Vader in Fortnite.
The Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, or SAG-AFTRA, has issued an unfair labor charge directed at Fortnite developers this week over the use of AI to voice Darth Vader in a recent update.
SAG-AFTRA alleges Llama Productions, the Epic Games subsidiary behind Fortnite, failed to disclose an intent to "replace the work of human performers with A.I. technology" when it came to the Darth Vader character used in the ongoing Star Wars event.
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SAG-AFTRA issued a statement on the matter on May 19 declaring it would go ahead with the labor practice charge. "We must protect our right to bargain terms and conditions around uses of voice that replace the work of our members, including those who previously did the work of matching Darth Vader's iconic rhythm and tone in video games," the statement read.
It continued, noting SAG-AFTRA received no notice of intent that AI would be used to replicate the iconic voice and character of Darth Vader, nor were appropriate terms discussed between Llama Productions, Epic Games, and the union.
The filing, which can be read in full here, stated Llama Productions "failed and refused to bargain in good faith." SAG-AFTRA's statement comes even after the family of James Earl Jones — the actor behind the voice of Darth Vader in the original Star Wars trilogy and various other media featuring the villain — gave their blessing to Epic Games and allowed the studio to proceed with the collaboration.
"James Earl felt that the voice of Darth Vader was inseparable from the story of Star Wars, and he always wanted fans of all ages to continue to experience it. We hope that this collaboration with Fortnite will allow both longtime fans of Darth Vader and newer generations to share in the enjoyment of this iconic character."
Fortnite players can party up with Darth Vader on the main map, but thanks to the use of AI integration, conversations over voice and text chat can be had with the Sith lord. Vader will respond in real-time to almost any question asked of him, silly or not.
The labor charge now sits with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) who may open further investigations into Epic Games' approach to developing the character in Fortnite. Where it goes from here isn't clear at this stage, however.
SAG-AFTRA's ongoing dispute with the video game industry over product rights stretches into its second year, with several big studios and games affected such as League of Legends and Genshin Impact, among others.
For more Fortnite news, stay tuned to esports.gg.
