Activision Quality Assurance Workers Form Largest Gaming Union in the U.S.
In a groundbreaking move for the gaming industry, an estimated 600 workers at Activision Publishing’s quality assurance department have come together to form the largest gaming union in the United States. With the assistance of the Communications Workers of America (CWA), the employees voted and certified the results on Friday, officially establishing the Activision Quality Assurance United – CWA union. This development marks a significant milestone for quality assurance workers who play a crucial role in testing games for bugs and often serve as a stepping stone for aspiring game developers.
The path to unionization was made smoother by the labor neutrality agreement reached between CWA and Microsoft in 2022. Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard for a staggering $68.7 billion further facilitated the workers’ goals of forming a union. Tom Shelley, a technical requirements specialist and one of the organizers of Activision Quality Assurance United, expressed his optimism about this achievement, stating that the labor neutrality agreement and Microsoft’s ownership have created favorable conditions for unionizing.
Microsoft’s recognition of the union is not unprecedented, as they had previously acknowledged a union of 300 quality assurance workers at ZeniMax Online. Additionally, Activision Blizzard already has unions at Blizzard in Albany and Raven Software in Wisconsin. These developments are taking place against the backdrop of a game industry plagued by record layoffs, with 8,000 job cuts reported this year and 10,500 in 2023.
The Activision Quality Assurance United – CWA union comprises workers located across California, Texas, and Minnesota. In total, the CWA represents over 1,000 Microsoft employees. The organizing efforts at Activision began in 2021, coinciding with a high-profile lawsuit filed by the state of California against the company for widespread sexual misconduct. This case has since been settled, but it shed light on the need for improved working conditions and protections within the gaming industry.
The formation of the largest gaming union in the U.S. is a significant step forward for workers in the gaming industry, highlighting the growing recognition of their rights and the importance of collective bargaining. It serves as a reminder that even in a rapidly evolving and highly competitive field like gaming, workers’ voices and concerns cannot be ignored. As the industry continues to grapple with issues such as workplace misconduct and job instability, unions offer a platform for workers to advocate for fair treatment, better working conditions, and job security.
The Activision Quality Assurance United – CWA union’s formation is a testament to the power of solidarity and collective action. By joining forces, these workers have not only secured their own rights but have also set a precedent for others in the gaming industry. As the union continues to grow and gain momentum, it is hoped that it will inspire similar movements across the sector, ultimately leading to a more equitable and sustainable gaming industry for all.