(Image credit: Bethesda)
ZeniMax Workers United, consisting of about 300 QA personnel at the parent company of Bethesda, has opted to empower their leaders to initiate a strike. This decision follows nearly two years of trying to negotiate their contract terms. For further insights, you can view the union’s press statement.
The union highlights that “more than 94%” participated in favor. This does not assure that a strike will ensue but grants leaders the ability to strike if negotiations halt. Earlier, ZeniMax Workers United orchestrated a one-day strike to protest against return-to-office mandates and the outsourcing of QA assignments by Microsoft. These issues, along with the quest for “better wages” and “workplace improvements,” remain crucial for the union.
Union member and QA tester, Aubrey Litchfield, asserted, “Despite being one of the world’s largest corporations, we’ve had to continuously fight for what should be the bare minimum.” They emphasize that providing a livable wage should be a given for a company the size of Microsoft. You can learn more about their stance through a related article.
Microsoft, in a response to GamesRadar+, acknowledged, “our quality assurance team is integral to our business.” They are committed to achieving a fair resolution that appreciates the efforts of the team. There have been significant advancements in the discussions, outlining a package proposal promising immediate salary hikes and enhanced benefits aligned with a hybrid work model.
Senior QA tester Zachary Armstrong discussed how low wages and costly return-to-office measures have forced many workers to suspend their lives as their earnings do not meet the living expenses in cities where residing and working are job requirements. The internal details of the negotiations remain undisclosed, but Microsoft’s hybrid work promise falls short for many members. Litchfield further stated that multiple titles were released while working remotely. More details can be found through additional resources.
Developers at companies like Blizzard and Rockstar have also resisted compulsory office returns. Senior QA tester Skylar Hinnant expressed, “We’re not afraid to use our union power to ensure that we can keep making great games.” The employees are eager to work and hope Microsoft will treat them with the fairness they seek by securing a first contract with their union.
Xbox had previously made amicable comments regarding unions amidst its Activision Blizzard acquisition. Yet, the true measure of this friendliness will be tested by their ability to ratify an actual contract. For more context, explore this discussion.