Bethesda Game Studios is the first Microsoft game developer to formally become fully unionized under the Communications Workers of America (CWA), forming a “full” union of developers including artists, engineers, programmers, and designers. Microsoft has recognized the union.
The union was approved after 241 developers signed union authorization cards or indicated their desire to unionize through an online portal. Bethesda Games Studio Montreal unionization in late June And unionization ZeniMax has about 300 quality assurance staff in-house.Bethesda’s parent company.
“We, the majority of developers at Bethesda Game Studios Dallas, Rockville & Austin, are excited to announce our unionization with @CWAUnion,” the group posted. X/Twitter“As #OneBGSUSA, we advocate for the betterment of all BGS developers and set new standards for the industry.”
The new union will now negotiate a contract with Microsoft. IGN has reached out to Microsoft for comment.
“We’re thrilled to announce the formation of a union at Bethesda Game Studios and join a movement sweeping across the video game industry,” senior systems designer Mandy Parker said in a press release. “It’s clear that all workers benefit from bringing democracy to the workplace and having a voice in their work. We’re excited to get down to business and win a fair contract. This proves that our solidarity is a source of true power to positively shape our working conditions, our lives, and our company as a whole.”
Unionization is on the rise Within the games industry, workers are seeking protection from mass layoffs. Sega of America’s union approved the contract earlier this year.Activision QA workers have announced they will form their own union. Microsoft previously Don’t block the Activision Blizzard mergerand apparently this extends to Bethesda Game Studios as well.
Kat Bailey is IGN’s News Director and co-host of Nintendo Voice Chat. Have a tip? DM @the_katbot!
