"Zenless Zone Zero Voice Actors Replaced, Learn via Patch Notes"

In a surprising turn of events, two voice actors from Zenless Zone Zero (ZZZ) discovered they had been replaced when the game's patch notes were released. This incident marks another chapter in the ongoing struggle for protections against the use of generative AI in the video game industry, led by the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA).

Developed by HoYoverse, the creators of Genshin Impact, ZZZ was not affected by the strike that began on July 25, 2024, as it was already in development. However, voice actors have the option to refrain from signing new contracts in solidarity with the striking union members or due to the absence of a SAG Interim Agreement.

Emeri Chase, the voice behind Soldier 11, stated they were replaced because of their refusal 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 also replaced, despite not being a union member.

Chase elaborated on the situation via a thread on Bluesky, explaining the nuances between being 'struck' and not being on an Interim Agreement. They highlighted that while union and non-union projects that began before the strike are not officially 'struck,' they do not offer the AI protections that actors are fighting for. Many actors, including Chase, have chosen to withhold work from such projects in support of the union's efforts.

Chase acknowledged the risk of being replaced but expressed hope that HoYoVerse would keep Soldier 11 silent until they could return. However, they learned of their replacement simultaneously with the public. Thurkettle, on the other hand, learned of his replacement alongside fans and noted a lack of communication from HoYoVerse and Sound Cadence since October, despite his availability and ongoing work in other projects.

Thurkettle, though not a union member, expressed solidarity with the cause, stating that the potential misuse of AI poses an existential threat to performers. He stood by his decision to seek protections, even at the cost of losing a significant role.

IGN has reached out to HoYoVerse for a comment on the situation.

In a related case from December, Activision confirmed the recasting of some characters in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. Characters like William Peck and Samantha Maxis were recast, and the lack of crediting for the new actors led to confusion among fans and concerns from the original voice actors about their professional reputation.

For a deeper understanding of how the SAG-AFTRA strike impacts the gaming industry, you can read our feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.