The wave of unionization continues to sweep across the gaming industry, with a significant development at id Software. The Texas-based studio, known for creating the iconic DOOM series, has successfully voted to form a union under the Communications Workers of America (CWA). This move comes after Microsoft signed a labour neutrality agreement with the CWA, facilitating its acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The decision saw 165 developers at id Software unite to form a wall-to-wall union, striving for better working conditions and control over their work environment.
Unionization Gains Momentum
Reports suggest the union formation at id Software was driven by a desire to protect work elements such as remote working capabilities and the use of AI. Chris Hays, lead services programmer at id Software and union member, emphasized the necessity of remote work, stating it is essential for health, family needs, and accessibility. Furthermore, Andrew Willis, a producer and union organizer at id Software, highlighted the importance of uniting developers to oppose unilateral workplace changes imposed by industry executives. The union aims to ensure that developers maintain control of their industry, delivering high-quality products while securing health benefits and job longevity.
A Growing Trend in the Industry
This move by id Software follows other significant union efforts in the industry. In August, 450 developers working on the Diablo series at Blizzard voted in favor of unionizing with the CWA. Additionally, ZeniMax Workers United QA struck a tentative deal with Microsoft after two years of negotiations. These developments indicate a broader trend towards unionization within the gaming industry, aiming to secure better working conditions and more substantial employee representation.
Challenges Ahead for the Union
Despite the successful vote, the journey for id Software’s union has just begun. Negotiating and ratifying a contract can be a lengthy process, as demonstrated by the two-year struggle faced by ZeniMax Workers United QA. Nonetheless, the vote signifies a critical step forward in improving working conditions for developers. The formation of a union at id Software represents a key milestone in the labor movement within the video game industry, initiated by Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
Caroline Pierrot, a senior VFX artist and organizing member, expressed pride in the studio’s efforts to organize, viewing it as a means to gain a voice in important decisions. She noted the instability in the industry in recent years, asserting that more unions could empower workers and shape a better future for the gaming sector.