The Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), a prominent union representing approximately 160,000 actors, voice artists, and other media professionals, has formally issued a “Do Not Work Order” concerning Capcom’s upcoming game, Mega Man: Dual Override. This directive strictly prohibits any union members from participating in the project until further notice.
According to a statement released by the organization, the production company behind the game has not initiated the necessary process to sign a collective bargaining agreement with the union. As a result, all SAG-AFTRA members are instructed to refrain from providing any acting services or performing any work that falls under the union’s jurisdiction for this particular game project.
A significant implication of this decision is that veteran voice actor Ben Diskin will be unable to return to his beloved role as Mega Man. Diskin disclosed that he was offered the opportunity to reprise his character for the new game, but this offer was contingent upon working without the protections afforded by a union contract.
The actor further stated that he was informed of “full guarantees of protection against AI use,” ostensibly assuring that his voice would not be exploited for artificial intelligence development. However, he simultaneously reported that Capcom representatives made it clear the project would not be operating under a unionized agreement. Diskin emphasized that engaging in work without a legally enforceable agreement presents considerable personal risk. He elaborated that the only practical way to uphold such informal arrangements, should they be breached, would involve pursuing a potentially costly and emotionally draining personal lawsuit against a major corporation.