ZeniMax testers unionise after vote; Microsoft recognises union

"Before us is an opportunity to make big changes and bring equity to the video game industry."

A group of quality assurance employees at ZeniMax Studios have votes to unionise, with Microsoft already saying it will voluntarily recognise the new union.

Approximately 300 testers across studios like iD Software, Bethesda and Arkane voted to join the ZeniMax Workers United/Communication Workers of America union.

“Before us is an opportunity to make big changes and bring equity to the video game industry,” senior QA audio tester Victoria Banos said of the unionisation.

“We want to put an end to sudden periods of crunch, unfair pay, and lack of growth opportunities within the company,” Banos continued. “Our union will push for truly competitive pay, better communication between management and workers, a clear path for those that want to progress their career, and more.”

Back in December (via Reuters), Microsoft said it would voluntarily recognise the union should workers vote to unionise.

“Microsoft has lived up to its commitment to its workers and let them decide for themselves whether they want a union,” said CWA president Chris Shelton.

“Other video game and tech giants have made a conscious choice to attack, undermine, and demoralize their own employees when they join together to form a union,” Shelton added. “Microsoft is charting a different course which will strengthen its corporate culture and ability to serve its customers and should serve as a model for the industry and as a blueprint for regulators.”