Zenless Zone Zero Voice Actor Replacements Announced

Two Zenless Zone Zero voice actors, Emeri Chase (Soldier 11) and Nicholas Thurkettle (Lycaon), claim they learned of their replacement via the game's patch notes. This situation highlights the ongoing conflict between SAG-AFTRA and the video game industry over the use of generative AI in replicating voice actor performances.

While Zenless Zone Zero, developed by HoYoverse, isn't directly subject to the strike (its development predates the July 25, 2024 strike commencement), the actors' decisions stem from a lack of SAG Interim Agreements offering AI protections. Chase, unwilling to work without such protections, chose to withhold their services, anticipating potential replacement. Thurkettle, a non-union member, made a similar choice, viewing the potential for AI misuse as an existential threat to his profession. Both actors expressed surprise at the lack of communication from HoYoverse and Sound Cadence.

Chase clarifies that while non-union and pre-strike projects aren't technically "struck," they lack the crucial AI protections the union is fighting for. Many actors are voluntarily withholding work on such projects to support the union's efforts. Chase had hoped HoYoverse would keep Soldier 11 silent until their return, while Thurkettle, despite being non-union, stood by his decision to prioritize AI protection, even if it meant losing his role.

HoYoVerse has been contacted for comment. This situation echoes a similar incident with Activision's Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, where the recasting of Zombies characters William Peck and Samantha Maxis was confirmed. While Zeke Alton (original voice of Peck) didn't object to the recasting itself, he expressed concern about the lack of credit for the replacement actor potentially misrepresenting his abilities.

For a deeper understanding of the SAG-AFTRA strike's impact on the gaming industry, see our previous feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.