Bethesda Workers Become First Microsoft Studio to Unionize

Bethesda Game Studios workers have announced that they have fully unionized under the Communication Workers of America, making it the first game studio under Microsoft to do so. The union consists of 241 employees who indicated their intent on unionizing with representation. Microsoft has also reportedly recognized the union. Earlier this year, Microsoft announced the shut down of Bethesda Softworks studios Arkane Austin (Redfall) Tango Gameworks (HI-FI RUSH, The Evil Within) Alpha Dog Games (Mighty DOOM), and Roundhouse Studios. According to the company, this was done “so that we can invest more deeply in our portfolio of games and new IP.” It also notes that “a small number of roles across select Bethesda publishing and corporate teams will also be eliminated.”

The Bethesda union made a statement about the unionization on Twitter saying:

“We, a majority of developers at Bethesda Game Studios Dallas, Rockville, and Austin, are ecstatic to announce the formation of our union with @CWAUnion. Together as #OneBGSUSA, we advocate for the betterment of every developer at BGS, setting the new standard for our industry.

As a democratic organization, we seek to empower the collective wishes of our studios’ workers; having a safe, sustainable, and equitable work environment for all.  Having a proper seat at the discussion table allows us to turn those wishes into reality.

As we work towards our first contract with Microsoft, we hope you’ll join us in voicing your support as we serve as an example for all, into the next era of game development.”

Details for the latest game from the publisher:

The sequel to the award winning Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Senua returns in a brutal journey of survival through the myth and torment of Viking Iceland. Intent on saving those who have fallen victim to the horrors of tyranny, Senua faces a battle of overcoming the darkness within and without.

Sink deep into the next chapter of Senua’s story, a crafted experience told through cinematic immersion, beautifully realised visuals and encapsulating sound.

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