ZeniMax Workers United-CWA, which represents more than 300 quality assurance workers at Microsoft’s subsidiary, announced last weekend that they have reached a tentative agreement with the company. The first contract negotiations between Microsoft and ZeniMax Workers United-CWA have been ongoing for two years now.
“QA workers from across the country continue to lead the charge for industry-wide change,” said Page Branson, a senior QA tester and a member of the union’s bargaining committee.
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“Going toe-to-toe with one of the largest corporations in the world isn’t a small feat. This is a monumental victory for all current video game workers and for those that come after.”
ZeniMax Media was founded in 1999 by Robert A. Altman and Christopher Weaver. The company was acquired by Microsoft in 2021 for a staggering $8.1 billion. According to ZeniMax Workers United-CWA, the new contract will “set new standards for the industry and includes substantial across-the-board wage increases as well as new minimum salaries for workers”.
ZeniMax Workers United-CWA will hold a ratification vote this month
Another committee member and QA tester, Jessee Leese, emphasized the exploitation of the passion and creativity of video game workers for revenue, which rarely trickles to their pockets.
“Organizing unions, bargaining for a contract, and speaking with one collective voice has allowed workers to take back the autonomy we all deserve,” Leese said. “Our first contract is an invitation for video game professionals everywhere to take action. We’re the ones who make these games, and we’ll be the ones to set new standards for fair treatment.”
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The union will hold contract explanation meetings over the coming weeks, and a ratification vote is expected to be concluded by June 20. In addition to the wage increase, other demands contained in the new contract include;
- Protection against arbitrary dismissal
- Grievance procedures
- Crediting policy that acknowledges the contributions of QA workers to the video games they make
- The use of AI in the workplace
“Workers in the video game industry are demonstrating once again that collective power works. This agreement shows what’s possible when workers stand together and refuse to accept the status quo,” said CWA president Claude Cummings Jr.
“Whether it’s having a say about the use of AI in the workplace, fighting for significant wage increases and fair crediting policies, or protecting workers from retaliation, our members have raised the bar. We’re proud to support them every step of the way.”
No fewer than 2,000 Microsoft employees in the video game division have joined CWA under a revolutionary neutrality agreement that allows them to freely and fairly decide whether they want to be represented by a union or not.
“We appreciate the dedication and engagement of the ZeniMax QA team and the bargaining committee throughout this process,” a Microsoft spokesperson told Insider Gaming.
“The tentative agreement represents a meaningful step forward and reflects a shared commitment to constructive dialogue and a common goal of fostering a positive workplace. We look forward to the outcome of the ratification process.”
The tentative contract between ZeniMax and Microsoft will ensure AI is only used to “enhance worker productivity, growth, and satisfaction without causing workers harm”. Also, ZeniMax “has agreed to provide notice to the union in cases where AI implementation may impact the work of union members”.
What more do you think video game workers can do to secure their positions in the fragile industry? Share your thoughts in the comment box below.
