Are Video Games Ready for a Flood of Striking Writers?

The writer's strike, which has raged since November 2007, has impacted seasonal television programming, movies, and even awards shows. Some of the issues being despited are the writer's demands for increased initial and residual compensation, better professional standards and protection of employees, and an expansion of their contract terms to cover "new media". The Writer's Guild of America (WGA) specifically cite "video games" as the prime example of new media, yet it does not seem that video game writers have joined their cause. So what impact, if any will the results of the strike have on the video game world?

Most voices agree that the strike will drive new video game sales and direct new users to the world of gaming. But what has the gaming industry done to prepare for the potential flood of new talent? Typically the writing in video games is a highly coveted and often underplayed part of the production process. While all agree that a well written script makes a better game, it tends to be viewed as the next important things after robust interface, quick game engines, and beautiful visuals. Also, what can the industry do to boost and exploit the idea of episodic content, an opportune yet under used convention in gaming? Perhaps the flood of striking writers will provide more incentive to have the industry explore these possibilities.