Microsoft has shown its support for the “World of Warcraft” gaming staff who recently voted to unionize under the Communications Workers of America (CWA). A spokesperson for Microsoft stated that the company will engage in good faith negotiations with the CWA to work towards a collective bargaining agreement.
The unionizing efforts by “World of Warcraft” employees, who are part of Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard team, have added approximately 500 designers, engineers, producers, artists, and quality assurance testers to the total number of Microsoft’s U.S.-based gaming staff that have unionized, now totaling around 1,750 employees.
In addition to the “World of Warcraft” staff, over 200 members of Microsoft’s Bethesda Game Studios, the maker of “Fallout,” have also recently unionized. Senior system designer and CWA member Mandi Parker expressed excitement about joining the union movement in the video game industry. Parker emphasized the importance of bringing democracy into the workplace and securing a protected voice on the job to positively impact working conditions and overall company culture.
Microsoft’s willingness to engage with unions is notable, especially as the company sought regulatory approval in 2022 to acquire Activision Blizzard. Microsoft announced a commitment to collaborative approaches that simplify the process for workers to choose whether to unionize.
This commitment from Microsoft follows a 2021 walkout at Activision in response to allegations of a toxic work environment, including a “frat boy culture” and harassment. The walkout occurred after the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed a complaint against the company under then-CEO Bobby Kotick’s leadership.
By openly supporting the unionization efforts of its employees, Microsoft is demonstrating its commitment to fostering a positive work environment and empowering workers to have a say in their working conditions. The company’s willingness to engage in negotiations with the CWA highlights a step towards creating a more collaborative and inclusive workplace culture within the gaming industry.
