Voice Actors Learn of Replacement via Patch Notes for Zenless Zone Zero
Two Zenless Zone Zero voice actors discovered they had been replaced when the game's patch notes were released, according to their claims, marking the latest development in the ongoing struggle for protections against generative AI in the entertainment industry.
The ongoing dispute between the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the video game industry centers on the use of generative AI to replicate voice performances. Zenless Zone Zero (ZZZ), developed by HoYoverse, the company behind Genshin Impact, is not affected by the strike as it was already in development before the strike's start date of July 25, 2024. However, voice actors may choose not to work on projects without a SAG Interim Agreement in solidarity with the striking union members.
Emeri Chase, who voiced Soldier 11, stated that they were replaced because they refused to perform work not covered by a SAG Interim Agreement during the strike, which is aimed at securing AI protections crucial for the industry's future. Similarly, Nicholas Thurkettle, who voiced Lycaon, was replaced despite not being a union member.
Chase clarified on Bluesky (via Eurogamer) that there is a distinction between being 'struck' and not being on an Interim Agreement. Projects that began before the strike, whether union or non-union, are not considered 'struck' but also do not provide the AI protections that the union is fighting for. Many actors are choosing to withhold work from these projects to support the union's efforts.
Chase acknowledged the risk of being replaced by withholding work but had hoped that HoYoverse would keep Soldier 11 silent until they could return. Both Chase and Thurkettle learned of their replacements at the same time as the public. Thurkettle, despite not being a SAG member, emphasized the existential threat posed by AI in the industry and stood by his decision to demand protections, even at the cost of his role.
IGN has reached out to HoYoverse for comment on this matter.
In a related incident from December, Activision confirmed recasting some members of the Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 cast after fans noticed new voices for beloved Zombies characters in-game. The company admitted to Game Developer that characters in Black Ops 6’s Zombies mode were recast due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. Characters like William Peck (Zeke Alton) and Samantha Maxis (Julie Nathanson) are now voiced by new, uncredited actors. Alton expressed concern about the impact on his brand as a performer due to the lack of proper crediting for the replacement actor.
For a deeper understanding of how the strike affects the gaming industry, you can read our feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.
