In a significant move for the video game industry, over 450 developers from Blizzard Entertainment`s Diablo team have voted to unionize under the Communications Workers of America (CWA). This successful organizing effort establishes representation through CWA Local 9510 in Irvine, California; Local 1118 in Albany, New York; and Local 6215 in Austin, Texas.
The newly formed union will encompass a broad spectrum of roles within Blizzard, including designers, engineers, artists, and support staff. Microsoft, the parent company of Blizzard, has officially recognized the union. This initiative is part of a broader trend within Blizzard, as the studio`s Story and Franchise Development team also voted to unionize earlier this month.
“With every subsequent round of mass layoffs, I`ve witnessed the dread in my coworkers grow stronger because it feels like no amount of hard work is enough to protect us. This is just the first step for us joining a movement spreading across an industry that is tired of living in fear.”
Workers shared personal anecdotes highlighting the pervasive atmosphere of uncertainty and instability that fueled the unionization drive. Designer Ryan Littleton recounted a moment of dread after a layoff round:
“The day after the third round of mass layoffs, I walked into the office, and when I tried to open the door to the cafeteria, my badge was denied. For a moment, I wondered if getting breakfast was how I`d find out I was part of that round. None of us should have to live with that constant worry that we might be let go at the drop of a hat.”
Senior software engineer Nav Bhatti characterized the unionization as a direct response to longstanding industry pressures. He explained that such stress pushes individuals into a “fight-or-flight” mode, but the union empowers them to “stand our ground in the industry.”
Jason Justice, president of CWA Local 9510, emphasized California`s growing influence in labor movements. He stated, “What`s happening here is part of a much larger story about turning the tide in an industry that has long overlooked its labor. Entertainment workers across film, television, music, and now video games are standing together to have a seat at the table.”