US Workers at Video Game Giant Stage Strike Over Outsourcing and Remote Work Policies

On Wednesday, hundreds of US workers at the video game giant behind Fallout staged a one-day strike over outsourcing and remote work policies, according to their labor union, ZeniMax Workers United.

Strike for Key Issues

ZeniMax Workers United made it clear that they are willing to take necessary actions to ensure that Microsoft meets them at the bargaining table to address key issues such as remote work options and outsourcing. The group announced their strike on X, formerly Twitter, stating, “Today, we are on strike.”

The Communication Workers of America (CWA), the union to which ZeniMax Workers United belongs, reported that hundreds of ZeniMax employees in Maryland and Texas participated in the strike throughout the work day. The primary goal of the strike was to urge Microsoft to address worker demands related to job security and improved working conditions.

Microsoft’s Acquisition of ZeniMax

In 2021, software giant Microsoft acquired ZeniMax Media for $7.5 billion, which was a significant move to expand its Xbox division. This acquisition gave Microsoft ownership of several popular franchises, including Fallout and Elder Scrolls, as ZeniMax is the parent company of Bethesda Softworks.

Despite the strike and the demands of the workers, Microsoft did not respond immediately to a request for comment on the situation.

Union Organizing in the Video Game Industry

Workers at Bethesda Game Studios joined the CWA in July of this year, as the momentum for union organizing in the video game industry continued to grow. Employees at Bethesda Game Studios were part of a larger movement within the industry, with workers from SEGA of America, Activision Blizzard, ZeniMax, and Tender Claws also forming unions, according to the CWA.

Conclusion

The strike by US workers at the video game giant behind Fallout highlights the ongoing challenges faced by employees in the industry, particularly concerning outsourcing and remote work policies. As workers continue to push for better job security and improved conditions, it remains to be seen how Microsoft will respond to their demands.

FAQs

What is the primary reason for the strike by ZeniMax workers?

The primary reasons for the strike include concerns over outsourcing and remote work policies, as well as demands for improved job security and working conditions.

How has the union organizing movement impacted the video game industry?

The union organizing movement has gained momentum in the video game industry, with workers from various companies, including ZeniMax, forming unions to address issues such as grueling workloads and job security.

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