ZeniMax Workers United-CWA, representing over 300 quality assurance testers at ZeniMax Media, has reached a tentative contract agreement with Microsoft after nearly two years of negotiations. This marks a significant milestone as the first union contract within Microsoft's gaming division. The agreement includes substantial wage increases, new minimum salaries, and protections against arbitrary dismissal. A key aspect of the contract is a crediting policy that formally recognises QA workers' contributions to game development.
Furthermore, the contract addresses the integration of AI in the workplace, ensuring workers have a voice in its implementation. The union was formed in 2023 and was voluntarily recognised by Microsoft, reflecting the company's commitment to neutrality towards unionisation. The agreement sets a potential standard for future negotiations within the gaming industry, as other unions at Raven Software, Activision, and ZeniMax Online Studios continue discussions with Microsoft.
Union members will vote on the contract by late June. If ratified, it will be a landmark achievement for game industry workers, potentially influencing similar negotiations across the sector. The deal also includes formal grievance procedures for employees.
