Take-Two CEO Shares His Views on GTAÂ
The video game industry is currently embroiled in negotiations between SAG-AFTRA video game actors and major video game companies as they seek to reach a new union contract. With a year marked by significant labor actions, the specter of a potential video game actor strike looms. However, one notable gaming executive, Take-Two Interactive’s CEO, remains unfazed by the possibility of such a strike impacting one of the most anticipated games, GTA 6.
During a recent Take-Two earnings call, an investor inquired whether GTA 6 could face delays if a strike materializes. In response, Strauss Zelnick expressed his optimism, believing that SAG-AFTRA’s video game actors wouldn’t resort to striking like their counterparts in the television and film industry. He conveyed confidence that negotiations would ultimately yield a favorable outcome for all parties involved.
Zelnick stated, “Negotiations are expected to resume next week. We’re optimistic. We value all of our talent greatly. We value excellent labor relations, we’re looking forward to reaching an agreement that serves everyone well.”
However, he also noted, “In the event they don’t work out just fine now, we are completely protected.”
While SAG-AFTRA actors in the film and television industry are currently on strike in their pursuit of a new contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, video game actors have yet to commence a strike. However, they have authorized one if deemed necessary during negotiations. Unfortunately, negotiations have yet to yield an agreement, and they’ve been on hold for several weeks.
If a strike were to occur, major companies such as Take-Two, Activision, EA, Insomniac, and WB Games could potentially face significant impacts. The union is advocating for various rights and protections for actors, including safeguards against replacement by AI, wage increases to match inflation, mandatory breaks, and on-set medics for on-camera performers.
Strauss Zelnick’s optimism regarding GTA 6 suggests that voice performances for the game may already be in place, hinting at the game’s proximity to completion. With the highly anticipated game’s first trailer set to be unveiled in early December, and Take-Two’s financial expectations indicating a possible release next year, GTA fans eagerly await further updates on the game’s development.