Voice Actors Learn of Replacement via Patch Notes for Zenless Zone Zero

In a surprising turn of events, two voice actors from the popular game Zenless Zone Zero (ZZZ) discovered they had been replaced when the game's patch notes were released. This incident sheds light on the ongoing conflict between the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the video game industry, particularly regarding the use of generative AI to replicate voice performances.

Developed by HoYoverse, the creators of Genshin Impact, ZZZ was not subject to the SAG-AFTRA strike that began on July 25, 2024, as it was already in development. However, voice actors like Emeri Chase, who voiced Soldier 11, have chosen not to work on projects without a SAG Interim Agreement in solidarity with the striking union members. Chase stated, "I was replaced as Soldier 11 because I am unwilling to perform work not covered by a SAG Interim Agreement during a strike for AI protection, the outcome of which will determine the future of our industry." Similarly, Nicholas Thurkettle, who played Lycaon and is not a union member, was also replaced.

Chase took to Bluesky to clarify the situation, stating, "Union projects that began work prior to the strike and non-union projects are not 'struck.' But they also do not offer the Union-enforced AI rights we are fighting for." She emphasized that many actors are voluntarily withholding work on such projects to support the union's fight for critical protections.

Both Chase and Thurkettle expressed their disappointment upon learning of their replacements through the patch notes, with Chase hoping HoYoverse would have kept her character silent until she could return. Thurkettle, who had not heard from HoYoverse or Sound Cadence since October, stood by his decision to push for AI protections despite the personal cost.

This situation echoes a similar case from December involving Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, where Activision recast beloved Zombies characters amid the SAG-AFTRA strike. Zeke Alton, who voiced William Peck, noted the potential damage to his brand due to the lack of crediting for the new actor.

For further insights into how the SAG-AFTRA strike impacts the gaming industry, readers can refer to the feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.

IGN has reached out to HoYoverse for comment on this matter.