The recent layoffs at Xbox Game Studios, which saw Microsoft cull 3,200 positions, sparked a mass wave of protests from various studios inside the Xbox collective, including powerhouses like Bethesda. It was clear following the layoffs that staff remaining at Microsoft-owned studios were concerned about their future, and following the layoffs, the Communications Workers of America has announced that it has officially ratified a new contract for "nearly 1,900 workers across Blizzard."
The actual contract has not been made public, but, as per the announcement, the new union contract secures wage increases, a hybrid workweek with two remote work days per week, remote work and disability accommodations, and protections against generative AI. Blizzard isn't the only game studio looking to union bargaining as a solution to issues in the gaming industry. Rockstar workers recently formed the Rockstar IWGB Game Workers Union in response to alleged unjust and retaliatory firings of 31 workers and fears of layoffs following the launch of GTA VI.Game Developer reports that Blizzard responded to the contract ratification with the following statement: Johanna Faries, President, Blizzard EntertainmentWe appreciate the dedication and engagement of our represented employees and the bargaining committees throughout this process, as well as every Blizzard employee whose work continued alongside it. The ratification of these agreements marks a significant milestone and reflects our shared commitment to continuing to work together in support of our teams and our players.