Over 200 developers at Activision-Blizzard have united to create a new union: the Overwatch Gamemakers Guild-CWA (OWGG-CWA). The Communications Workers of America announced this development recently and noted that Microsoft has officially recognized the union.
The union’s founders highlighted several factors that motivated them to organize, including frequent layoffs in the gaming industry, challenging work conditions, and the successful establishment of other unions. As Frank Le Cocq, a visual effects artist in the field, stated, “The widespread layoffs in gaming, including at my studio, were a key reason I began to learn about organizing for a healthier work environment.” He added that the accomplishments of the World of Warcraft team in their own union efforts provided hope to his colleagues.
Currently, more than 2,600 Microsoft studio employees are affiliated with unions under the CWA umbrella. Many of these individuals have felt the effects of recent upheavals in the industry, including the closure of three EA-owned studios. While Microsoft’s acknowledgment of the OWGG-CWA is encouraging, it signifies only the beginning of the union’s journey. The group must determine its priorities moving forward, which can be complex given the diverse roles represented within the union.
The Overwatch Gamemakers Guild encompasses developers from a range of specializations including design, production, engineering, art, sound, and quality assurance. In contrast, the Zenimax union mentioned by Le Cocq is comprised solely of QA personnel.
Union member Jess Castillo expressed, “I’m passionate about our company, our teams, and the collaborative efforts we put forth. Unionizing ensures we have a voice in the decision-making process, allowing us to work alongside leadership to cultivate a healthier and more sustainable work environment. When we feel supported and can flourish, we deliver the best experiences possible for our players, which is why we are all here.”
