Blizzard workers ratify union contract with AI and remote work protections

The Communications Workers of America has ratified a new union contract covering nearly 1,900 workers across Blizzard, following a period of unrest at Microsoft-owned game studios. The agreement comes after recent Xbox Game Studios layoffs in which Microsoft cut 3,200 positions, prompting protests across studios including Bethesda.

The contract has not been made public, but the union said it includes wage increases, a hybrid workweek with two remote work days per week, remote work and disability accommodations, and protections against generative AI. The deal reflects growing labor activity in the games industry as workers seek formal bargaining power around job security and workplace changes.

Rockstar workers recently formed the Rockstar IWGB Game Workers Union in response to alleged unjust and retaliatory firings of 31 workers, along with concerns about layoffs after the launch of GTA VI. Blizzard President Johanna Faries said the ratification marked a significant milestone and reflected a shared commitment to supporting teams and players.