Genshin Impact, one of the most popular open-world games by HoYoverse, has just launched its version 5.1 update. However, something is different in this update. Several characters in the game lack English voice acting, drawing attention and concern from players. HoYoverse has cited "recording arrangements" as the reason behind this absence, though many speculate that the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike (Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) might be the cause.
The Impact of the SAG-AFTRA Strike on the Gaming Industry
The SAG-AFTRA strike, which began on July 26, 2024, aims to improve working conditions for voice actors and addresses their concerns about the use of AI in the gaming industry. As the entertainment industry’s reliance on AI grows, concerns about the potential of AI replacing human actors have taken center stage in this strike. This situation mirrors the 2023 writers and actors' strike that significantly impacted Hollywood.
Several prominent voice actors, such as Jennifer Hale, Doug Cockle, and Cissy Jones, have voiced their opinions about the threat AI poses to their work. Hale, known for her roles in Metal Gear Solid and Mass Effect series, commented that AI is merely a tool, and its impact depends on how it’s used: it can either build or destroy.
Meanwhile, Cissy Jones founded a company called Morpheme.ai to help actors control their own voices through AI technology, providing opportunities for actors to embrace technological changes.
Incomplete Voice Acting in the 5.1 Update
In Genshin Impact’s version 5.1 update, characters like Kachina (voiced by Kristen McGuire), Kinich (John Patneaude), Aether (Zach Aguilar), and Ajaw (Abby Espiritu) lack English voice acting. This absence is particularly noticeable as other characters, such as Paimon (Corina Boettger) and the new character Xilonen (Beth Curry), still have their voices intact. The lack of voice acting for some characters is especially evident in certain scenes involving multiple character dialogues.
HoYoverse explained in the patch notes that “due to recording arrangements, some content in version 5.1 lacks English voice acting. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.” However, speculation persists that the SAG-AFTRA strike might be contributing to the delay or absence of certain voice lines.
The Strike's Influence on Other Games
It’s not only Genshin Impact that has been affected by this situation. Other games by miHoYo, such as Honkai: Star Rail and Zenless Zone Zero, have also experienced changes in voice actors. Actors like Adam Michael Gold, who voices Argenti and Mr. Tail, as well as Courtney Lin, the voice of Huohuo, have been replaced. Some voice actors have hinted that solidarity with the SAG-AFTRA strike could be one reason behind these changes.
Although HoYoverse itself is not directly involved in negotiations with SAG-AFTRA since most of its voice work is handled by production company Formosa Interactive, actors can still choose not to work as a form of support for the strike.
What Can Players Expect?
As a live-service game that continuously receives updates, Genshin Impact typically records its dialogue and voice acting well in advance of an update's release. This explains why the SAG-AFTRA strike’s impact may not be immediately visible in some early updates. However, for updates closer to the strike period, like version 5.1, the impact is becoming apparent with the absence of certain voice actors.
For players, the lack of voice acting might detract from their experience, especially for those accustomed to Genshin Impact’s high-quality narrative and voice work. However, until there is further resolution, it’s likely there will be more changes in the audio aspects of future updates.
Conclusion
The Genshin Impact version 5.1 update brings back engaging stories with new characters, yet faces challenges due to the absence of English voice acting. While HoYoverse has attributed this to "recording arrangements," many believe the SAG-AFTRA strike is related to the issue. Fans can only hope for a swift resolution to this conflict, so the game’s high-quality voice acting can once again be enjoyed in future updates.
Source: IGN, Euro Gamer, Polygon.