Following two years of contract discussions with parent company Microsoft, members of ZeniMax Workers United have voted overwhelmingly to permit a strike. The union announced this information earlier today through a press release shared by the Communications Workers of America, stating, “We’re not afraid to utilize our union strength to ensure that we can continue making exceptional games. Everyone wants to be employed. We hope Microsoft will let us do so with dignity and fairness to all through securing our first contract with the union.”
Originally reported by The Verge, this news comes after over two years of contract discussions between ZeniMax Workers United and Microsoft. Since the formation of the union in 2023, members have been actively advocating for improved salaries, workplace enhancements, and addressing “key issues, including a lack of remote work options and the company’s replacement of in-house quality-assurance roles with external labor without notifying the union.” Last November, union members departed the workplace in a one-day strike to “call the company out for its lack of progress at the negotiation table.” While the recent vote does not mean union workers have officially initiated a strike, it grants the organization the authority to request one should contract negotiations continue to falter.
“Despite being one of the largest corporations in the world, we have consistently fought for what should be basic standards. Compensating your employees a living wage as a multi-trillion dollar corporation is the least they could do; however, when brought up at the negotiating table, Microsoft reacts as if we’re asking for too much,” ZeniMax Workers United member and associate QA tester Aubrey Litchfield noted in the press release. “Our in-house contractors have been working for minimal pay without any benefits, including no paid sick leave. Employees are opting not to start families due to financial uncertainties. We have released multiple titles while working entirely remotely. When will enough be enough?”
Comprising over 300 quality-assurance personnel across Bethesda and ZeniMax studios, ZeniMax Workers United stands as one of Microsoft’s largest unions. Its members are recognized for their contributions to several notable Microsoft franchises, including The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and Doom. With Doom: The Dark Ages set to launch in just over a month, a strike could have major implications for Microsoft.
Meanwhile, SAG-AFTRA members involved in the video game industry continue their strike amid escalating concerns regarding AI. Currently, the situation remains unresolved.