Apex Legends’ French voice cast quit over AI

Apex Legends‘ new AI contract resulted in the entire French voice cast resigning in protest, refusing to accept “this kind of abuse.”

Actors cite disputes over a new addendum in their contracts allowing for the potential use of AI in the future. In response, all 32 talents did not sign the new contract and unanimously agreed to quit.

After consulting with lawyers, many voiced that signing would represent an endorsement of AI. Some are also concerned about future job security, with studios relying more on trained models rather than the actors themselves.

It is the latest row against the use of AI in gaming, with last year seeing several strikes against the practice over fears of job security and creativity.

Many of the actors publicized their discontent online, with Wraith’s French voice actor Pascale Chemin writing a statement on Instagram criticizing the game’s new direction.

A rough translation of a statement from Chemin said: “We hope that an agreement will be reached between the recording studio, the broadcaster, and the publisher before recording begins, so that everything can return to normal and we can work together again under good conditions.

“We do not wish, and cannot, say more. Other actors in other countries have also received this addendum in relation to the new law on intellectual property and its application in Europe.

“This is not the first time, nor will it be the last. We have already witnessed this kind of abuse in the past. We are being asked to agree to give up all rights to our voices, with no guarantee of limited use. We are being asked to endorse AI.”

All french voice actors for Apex Legends refuse future work over new contract clause for AI training
byu/McManus26 inGames

Though Apex Legends was not specifically stated, the inclusion of the other voice actors and the mention of a game running for “6 years” makes it difficult to believe she is referring to any other title.

Electronic Arts (EA), the publisher behind Apex Legends, alognside several major player’s in the gaming industry have been pushing to implement AI into the development and gameplay of their titles. EA CEO called generative AI a ‘billion dollar opportunity’ in gaming.

Apex Legends also stands one of EA’s most successful modern titles in recent years, and so questions are being raised by fans and critics as to why the publisher feels the need to cut corners with AI?

Featured image: Electronic Arts / Respawn 

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