Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's move to unionize reflects growing unrest within the video game industry. The past year and a half has seen significant upheaval, including widespread layoffs and studio closures, even impacting seemingly successful studios. This unpredictability has eroded trust among developers and fans alike.
Beyond layoffs, the industry grapples with issues like crunch time, discrimination, and unfair wages. Unionization is increasingly seen as a solution. Vodeo Games' 2021 unionization in North America paved the way, and more developers are now seeking similar protection.
Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's recent announcement of its unionization filing with Quebec's Labour Board, aiming to join the Canadian Communications Workers of America, is a significant development. This follows Xbox's recent closure of four other Bethesda studios, fueling concerns within the industry.
Bethesda Game Studios Montreal Unionization Announcement
The shutdowns, including Tango Gameworks (Hi-Fi Rush's developer), have left gamers demanding answers from Xbox. While executives haven't provided complete explanations, hints suggest Shinji Mikami's departure played a role, despite efforts to prevent it.
Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's unionization reflects a desire for greater job security and improved working conditions. CWA Canada has publicly congratulated the studio, expressing eagerness to collaborate. Bethesda Game Studios Montreal hopes its action will encourage other developers to advocate for better worker rights within the industry.
