Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's recent unionization bid shines a light on the ongoing instability within the video game industry. The past year and a half has seen significant upheaval, marked by widespread layoffs and studio closures, even impacting seemingly successful developers. This unpredictability has eroded trust among developers and fans alike.
Beyond layoffs, the industry grapples with issues like crunch time, discrimination, and the fight for fair compensation. Unionization is increasingly viewed as a solution. Vodeo Games' 2021 unionization marked a turning point in North America, and the trend is gaining momentum.
Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's announcement of its unionization application to the Quebec Labour Board, aiming to join the Canadian Communications Workers of America, reflects this growing movement. This move is perhaps unsurprising given recent events, particularly Xbox's closure of four other Bethesda studios.
Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's Unionization Announcement
The shutdowns, including that of Tango Gameworks (Hi-Fi Rush's developer), have prompted gamer outcry and limited transparency from Xbox executives. While details remain scarce, Xbox executive Matt Booty has alluded to Shinji Mikami's departure as a contributing factor.
Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's unionization effort signals a proactive approach by developers to mitigate risks like studio closures and secure improved working conditions. CWA Canada has publicly congratulated the studio, expressing eagerness to collaborate. Bethesda Game Studios Montreal hopes to inspire other developers to advocate for better worker rights within the industry.
