Zenless Zone Zero Voice Actors Say They Found Out They Were Replaced When the Patch Notes Went Live

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 regarding generative AI and its impact on 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), actors may choose not to work on projects lacking SAG Interim Agreements that guarantee AI protections. Chase explicitly stated their refusal to work on projects without these protections, leading to their replacement. Thurkettle, a non-union member, faced a similar outcome. He emphasizes that the potential misuse of AI is an existential threat to the industry, justifying his decision to forgo the role.

Chase clarifies that the situation differs from a "struck" project; these projects, while not under strike, lack the crucial AI protections the union is fighting for. Many actors, in solidarity, are choosing to withhold work from such projects. Both actors expressed surprise at their replacement, noting a lack of communication from HoYoVerse and Sound Cadence.

HoYoVerse has been contacted for comment. This situation echoes a similar event involving Activision and the Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 cast, where characters William Peck and Samantha Maxis were recast, prompting concerns from the original actors regarding their professional representation and lack of credit for the replacements. Alton, the original voice of Peck, expressed concern about the lack of credit given to the replacement, potentially misleading fans. For further information on the SAG-AFTRA strike's impact on gaming, see our previous feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.