450 Diablo Developers Support Unionization with the CWA

Significant Move Toward Unionization at Blizzard

An impressive development has unfolded at Blizzard, a subsidiary of Microsoft, as 450 developers involved in the production of Diablo have cast their votes in favor of unionization, aligning with the Communications Workers of America (CWA).This moment marks a pivotal shift in the workplace dynamics within the gaming industry.

Details of the Unionization Vote

According to a recent press release from the CWA, the Diablo developers who supported the unionization effort will become members of CWA Local 9510 in Irvine, Local 1118 in Albany, and Local 6215 in Austin. Microsoft, adhering to its commitment to facilitate the acquisition of Activision Blizzard King, has acknowledged the union, indicating a potentially cooperative relationship moving forward.

Challenges Faced by Unionized Developers

However, it’s important to note that Microsoft’s acceptance has not always been straightforward. The ZeniMax QA union, recognized as the first significant union under Microsoft following the acquisition, faced considerable challenges, taking two years to negotiate an agreement, which ultimately required a strike to reach a resolution. This highlights the complex nature of union negotiations within the gaming sector.

Voices from the Community

Many developers are vocal about the positive impact of unionization. Kelly Yeo, a producer on Diablo, expressed her relief, stating, “With every subsequent round of mass layoffs, I’ve witnessed the dread in my coworkers grow stronger because it feels like no amount of hard work is enough to protect us. I am overjoyed that we have formed a union—this is just the first step for us joining a movement spreading across an industry that is tired of living in fear.”

Nav Bhatti, a senior software engineer also working on Diablo, emphasized the emotional toll on developers, sharing, “My entire career as a developer has seen my peers and I paying the ‘passion tax’ for working in an industry that we love. At some point, you have to choose between fight or flight, and forming a union is us doing just that—standing our ground in the industry.”

The Broader Context of Unionization in Gaming

This recent vote signifies a broader trend of unionization efforts within Blizzard, particularly following the formation of a union by the Overwatch 2 team. Reports regarding the challenging working conditions at Microsoft underscore the necessity of these unions, as workers advocate for better quality of life and job security. The movement towards unionization appears to be gaining momentum, with developers increasingly vocal about their needs and rights.

As the landscape of unionization evolves, it is clear that the voices of gaming professionals are becoming increasingly pivotal in advocating for change. This reflects a growing movement across the industry, highlighting the collective desire for improved working conditions and fair treatment.

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