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 over generative AI usage in replicating voice actor performances. While Zenless Zone Zero, developed by HoYoverse, isn't directly subject to the strike (pre-dating its July 25, 2024 commencement), the actors' decisions stem from a desire for AI protections and solidarity with striking union members.

Chase, unwilling to work without a SAG Interim Agreement ensuring AI protections, stated their replacement was a consequence of this stance. Thurkettle, a non-union member, shared similar sentiments, emphasizing the existential threat AI poses to the industry and his personal commitment to advocating for actor protections. Both actors expressed surprise at their replacement, noting a lack of communication from HoYoVerse and Sound Cadence. HoYoVerse has yet to comment.

This isn't an isolated incident. Activision similarly recast voice actors for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Zombies mode, replacing Zeke Alton (William Peck) and Julie Nathanson (Samantha Maxis) with uncredited actors. Alton, while not objecting to the replacement itself, expressed concern about the lack of credit impacting his professional reputation.

For further insight into the SAG-AFTRA strike's impact on the gaming industry, see our feature: What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.