This news covers a significant unionization effort at id Software, where a large percentage of employees are banding together for better rights and protections.
Majority of Employees Join Forces
About 165 out of 185 workers at id Software declared their intent to form a union with help from the Communications Workers of America. This initiative comes after a wave of layoffs impacted several studios in 2024, particularly following Microsoft’s closure of Bethesda studios. Andrew Willis, an id Software producer, expressed the importance of this moment for a studio with such a rich history.
Workers started organizing over a year ago, but interest surged after seeing peers at Bethesda go through unionization successfully. Chris Hays, lead services programmer, cited layoffs at Tango Gameworks as a wake-up call. Workers recognized the need to take control of their future rather than wait to see if layoffs would hit them.
Focused Negotiation Areas
The new union plans to conduct surveys to guide their negotiations with Microsoft. Key issues include improving employee benefits, outlining remote work policies, and implementing responsible AI use.
Hays noted that many workers are unsure of the benefits they currently receive, leading to demands for clearer structures. He’s especially eager to establish protections for remote work. Despite many teams successfully collaborating from home, concerns linger about back-to-office mandates.
“I think we can continue to use remote work benefits we saw during COVID,” Hays affirmed, indicating that they learned valuable lessons during the pandemic.
- Workers unsure of current benefits
- Remote work success during COVID
- Aiming for AI use regulations
Addressing Broader Industry Issues
Willis expressed concern over Microsoft’s push to use AI without sufficient safeguards. Past union successes highlight the need for binding agreements that ensure AI enhances human work without harm.
In addition to workplace conditions, the union might also address Microsoft’s involvement in international controversies, particularly regarding their operations in Israel. Willis hinted that personal beliefs about corporate ethics could shape negotiations.
“It’s time for developers to have a real say,” he stated, emphasizing that too often, decisions are made by those unfamiliar with the gaming industry. Increasing union representation can help retain experienced talent crucial for game development.
