SAG AFTRA launches union agreement for video game pitches and demos

The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists has launched a new union contract for game developers to use union actors in early pitches and pre-release material, Game Developer reported on November 6. The framework is called the Pre-Funding Pitch Interactive Media Agreement. It applies specifically to developers who are making full-featured pitches, vertical slices, and playable demos designed to secure game funding. [1]

Before this announcement, no specific union rules existed for using SAG-AFTRA performers in pitches intended to raise project capital, according to Game Developer. The new guidelines establish a standard process for hiring union voice and performance talent during early pre-production. [1]

SAG-AFTRA negotiates collective bargaining agreements across film, television, radio, animation, and video games. Its core duties include setting minimum wage rates, health benefits, pension contributions, and workplace safety standards across interactive media and entertainment sectors. [3]