ZeniMax QA union reaches a tentative contract agreement with Microsoft including 'substantial across-the-board wage increases,' worker protections, and more

Published: Friday, May 30, 2025 at 7:27 pm

ZeniMax QA Union Reaches Tentative Agreement with Microsoft, Signaling a Win for Game Workers

In a significant victory for game developers, the ZeniMax Workers United-CWA union has reached a tentative contract agreement with Microsoft, following a vote to authorize a strike. The agreement, announced just two months after the strike authorization, includes "substantial across-the-board wage increases," new minimum salaries, and crucial worker protections against arbitrary dismissal. The contract also addresses game credits, acknowledging QA workers' contributions to the games they help create.

The union, formed in January 2023, began negotiations shortly thereafter. While progress was slow, the authorization of a strike in April 2025 appears to have spurred action. The agreement is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and the growing momentum of unionization within the gaming industry. Senior QA tester and ZeniMax Workers United-CWA bargaining committee member Page Branson hailed the agreement as a "monumental victory" for current and future game workers.

The agreement now awaits ratification by the union's over 300 members, with a vote expected by June 20. If approved, this will be a landmark achievement, marking the first of its kind in the US game industry. This comes amidst a wave of unionization efforts across the industry, including at Activision, Blizzard, and the formation of a North American industry-wide union.

BNN's Perspective: This agreement is a positive development for the gaming industry. While some may worry about the potential impact on development costs, the improved working conditions and fair compensation are crucial for the long-term health and sustainability of the industry. It's a sign that workers are demanding and achieving a better balance of power, which could lead to more stable and fulfilling careers in game development.

Keywords: ZeniMax, Microsoft, union, contract, agreement, QA, wages, worker protections, game industry, strike, collective bargaining, game developers, unionization, Bethesda, Activision, Blizzard, Overwatch, gaming, video games, employment, compensation, benefits

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