“Bethesda Game Studios Employees Embark on Groundbreaking Unionisation Effort”
In a groundbreaking move, 241 workers at Bethesda Game Studios have decided to unionise, marking the first wall-to-wall union at Microsoft. The union recognition with Communication Workers of America (CWA) has sparked excitement among developers at Bethesda Game Studios Dallas, Rockville, and Austin as they announce the formation of their union under the name #OneBGSUSA.
With a democratic approach, the union aims to empower workers by advocating for a safe, sustainable, and equitable work environment for all developers at Bethesda Game Studios. By having a proper seat at the table, they intend to transform their collective wishes into reality.
In solidarity with ZeniMax Workers, OneBGS_MTL, and CWA Union, the union is pushing for increased job security, compensation transparency, and flexibility to continue creating the games they love. Microsoft has reportedly recognized the union, showing support for this historic move in the gaming industry.
Bethesda Game Studios’ decision to unionise comes in response to the widespread job cuts and studio closures that have plagued the industry in recent years. Other studios, such as Just Cause developer Avalanche, have also made moves towards collective bargaining agreements with unions.
For more insight into the industry’s landscape and the impact of these changes, check out GamesIndustry.biz’s Chris Dring’s in-depth analysis on Eurogamer. As Bethesda Game Studios works towards negotiating their first contract with Microsoft, they hope to set an example for the future of game development.
