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

Two voice actors from Zenless Zone Zero (ZZZ) have discovered they were replaced when the game's patch notes were released, highlighting ongoing tensions over generative AI protections in the video game industry. The Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is currently in a dispute with the video game industry regarding the use of generative AI to replicate voice actor performances.

ZZZ, developed by HoYoverse, the company behind Genshin Impact, is not subject to the SAG-AFTRA strike as it was in development before the strike's start date of July 25, 2024. However, voice actors may choose not to work on projects that do not have a SAG Interim Agreement in solidarity with the striking union members.

Emeri Chase, who voiced Soldier 11, stated they were replaced because they refused to work on projects not covered by a SAG Interim Agreement during the strike, which is focused on securing AI protections crucial for the future of the industry. Similarly, Nicholas Thurkettle, who voiced Lycaon and is not a union member, was also replaced.

Chase clarified on Bluesky that projects started before the strike or non-union projects are not considered "struck," but they also do not offer the AI rights that the union is fighting for. Many actors are voluntarily withholding their work from these projects to support the union's efforts.

Chase expressed hope that HoYoVerse would keep Soldier 11 silent until they could return, but discovered their replacement along with the public. Thurkettle, learning of his replacement simultaneously, emphasized his full availability and recent work on other projects, standing by his decision to request AI protections despite the personal professional cost.

IGN has sought comment from HoYoVerse regarding these developments.

In a related incident last December, Activision confirmed recasting some characters in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 amid the SAG-AFTRA strike, with Zombies characters William Peck and Samantha Maxis now voiced by new actors. Zeke Alton, the original voice of William Peck, expressed concern over the lack of crediting for the replacement actor, which he felt misrepresented his performance abilities.

For further insight into how the SAG-AFTRA strike impacts the gaming industry, you can refer to our feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.