241 Bethesda Game Studios workers join union.
The union recognition of Bethesda Game Studios by the Communication Workers of America (CWA) marks the “first end-to-end unionization at Microsoft.”
“We, a majority of developers at Bethesda Game Studios Dallas, Rockville, and Austin, are excited to announce the formation of our union with CWA Union. Together, as #OneBGSUSA, we are advocating for the betterment of every developer at BGS, setting the new standard for our industry.
“As a democratic organization, we seek to realize the collective wishes of our studio workers, providing a safe, sustainable and equitable work environment for all. Having a proper seat at the table allows us to turn these wishes into reality.
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“In solidarity with our colleagues at ZeniMax Workers, OneBGS_MTL, and the entire CWA union, we are demanding increased job security, pay transparency, and increased flexibility to continue creating the games we love.”
The statement concludes: “As we work toward our first deal with Microsoft, we hope you will join us in expressing your support as we serve as an example for all in the next era of game development.”
Microsoft reportedly “recognized the union.”
Bethesda is just one of many studios that have decided to unionize in response to the more than 15,000 job cuts and studio closures over the past 18 months. Last April, Just Cause developer Avalanche confirmed its intention to reach a collective bargaining agreement with Swedish unions.
GamesIndustry.biz’s Chris Dring recently took a closer look at the layoffs at Eurogamer, offering some insight into what exactly is going on.
