SAG-AFTRA has introduced a new agreement that allows game developers to request union talent for their games before they have been pitched to publishers. This Pre-Funding Pitch Interactive Media Agreement enables actors to be involved in creating internal teaser trailers or vertical slice gameplay demos, showcasing the game's potential to potential backers.
The goal is to create a higher-quality product that captures both imaginations and funding, according to SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin. The agreement streamlines the hiring of professional union talent, giving developers an edge in securing funding in a competitive industry, as stated by SAG-AFTRA executive director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland.
However, this agreement cannot be used for crowdfunded games, such as Kickstarters. The union's aim is to get more eyes on the project by having an actor already cast before the game is announced, ensuring that developers work with union talent rather than going non-union. SAG-AFTRA has represented US gaming talent and organised strikes to secure protections against generative AI, impacting game development in 2024-2025.