Known for hit franchises such as The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and most recently Starfield, Bethesda Game Studios has formed a union. This is the first time a game developer has done so under Microsoft’s wing.
Bethesda has joined with the Communications Workers of America (CWA,) after over 240 developers from across the board agreed to do so.
Calling for clarity
In a post via the newly formed CWA account on X, the union and their goals were outlined.
“We, a majority of developers at Bethesda Game Studios Dallas, Rockville, and Austin, are ecstatic to announce the formation of our union with @CWAUnion. Together as #OneBGSUSA, we advocate for the betterment of every developer at BGS, setting the new standard for our industry.”
“As a democratic organization, we seek to empower the collective wishes of our studios’ workers; having a safe, sustainable, and equitable work environment for all. Having a proper seat at the discussion table allows us to turn those wishes into reality.”
The group are pushing for “increased job security, compensation transparency, and flexibility to continue creating the games we love.”
The announcement ends strongly, indicating that the union are working towards their “first contract with Microsoft,” and with the hope that gamers and those in the industry will join them “in voicing your support as we serve as an example for all, into the next era of game development.”
In an industry where layoffs and studio closures are too common, there has been an increase in studios getting involved with unions. This way, the talent behind our favourite games can advocate for greater transparency and work through the risk of layoffs.
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