Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's recent unionization bid shines a light on the ongoing struggles 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 concerning job security.
Beyond layoffs, the industry grapples with issues such as crunch time, discrimination, and the fight for fair compensation. Unionization has emerged as a potential solution. Vodeo Games' 2021 unionization was a landmark moment in North America, and now, more workers are pursuing similar efforts.
Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's announcement, shared on their social media, confirms their application for certification with the Quebec Labour Board, aiming to join the Canadian Communications Workers of America. This move isn't unexpected given the industry climate, particularly following Xbox's closure of four other Bethesda studios.
The recent closures, including Tango Gameworks (developers of Hi-Fi Rush), have left gamers demanding answers from Xbox. While executives have been tight-lipped, hints suggest Shinji Mikami's departure played a role, despite efforts to prevent it.
Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's unionization reflects a broader desire for greater job security and improved working conditions within the industry. CWA Canada has publicly congratulated the studio, expressing eagerness to collaborate. Bethesda Game Studios Montreal hopes their action will inspire other developers to advocate for better worker rights.
