ZeniMax Workers United have reached a tentative agreement with Microsoft following a two-year negotiation.
As reported by Bloomberg, the contract includes a wage increase of 13.5% to be implemented on July 1, 2025, as well as new minimum salaries.
The Communication Workers of America noted the contract will protect employees “against arbitrary dismissal and grievance procedures”, in addition to a crediting policy that acknowledges the contributions of quality assurance workers.
It also incorporates a previously announced agreement of how artificial intelligence is incorporated in the workplace.
Microsoft described the agreement as a “meaningful step forward” that “reflects a shared commitment to constructive dialogue and a common goal of fostering a positive workplace”.
“Video games have been the revenue titan of the entire entertainment industry for years, and the workers who develop these games are too often exploited for their passion and creativity,” said ZeniMax QA tester and ZWU-CWA bargaining committee member Jessee Leese.
“Organising unions, bargaining for a contract, and speaking with one collective voice has allowed workers to take back the autonomy we all deserve. Our first contract is an invitation for video game professionals everywhere to take action. We’re the ones who make these games, and we’ll be the ones to set new standards for fair treatment.”
CWA president Claude Cummings Jr. added: “Workers in the video game industry are demonstrating once again that collective power works. This agreement shows what’s possible when workers stand together and refuse to accept the status quo.
“Whether it’s having a say about the use of AI in the workplace, fighting for significant wage increases and fair crediting policies, or protecting workers from retaliation, our members have raised the bar. We’re proud to support them every step of the way.”
ZWU-CWA formed in 2023, consisting of over 300 QA employees across ZeniMax’s operations in the United States.
In May 2024, ZeniMax Studio workers were formally covered by Microsoft’s labour neutrality agreement with the CWA. As a result, Microsoft became legally bound to neutrally approach the unionisation of its staff.
Last December, 461 employees of ZeniMax Online Studios formed the ZOS United-CWA union. Nearly 250 Bethesda Game Studios developers also unionised last year.