Microsoft, Bethesda QA Union Reach Tentative Deal After Long Talks

More than 300 unionized quality assurance workers at ZeniMax Media have secured a preliminary labor agreement with parent company Microsoft, marking a significant milestone two years after forming their union. These workers contribute to major franchises including The Elder Scrolls and Doom.

Landmark Contract Achieves Key Worker Protections

ZeniMax Workers United, organized under the Communications Workers of America (CWA), announced the contract includes substantial wage increases, minimum salary standards, safeguards against wrongful termination, and formal grievance procedures. The agreement also establishes AI usage guidelines to protect workers and implements a crediting policy guaranteeing proper recognition in game credits.

ZeniMax Media's portfolio includes Bethesda Softworks and renowned studios like Bethesda Game Studios (Starfield, Fallout), id Software (Doom), and Arkane Studios (Dishonored). Microsoft completed its $8.1 billion acquisition of ZeniMax in March 2021, integrating it into Microsoft Gaming.

Workers Celebrate Hard-Won Victory

"The gaming industry generates billions, yet developers frequently face exploitation despite their passion," said bargaining committee member Jessee Leese. "Through collective action, we're reclaiming the fair treatment we deserve. This contract isn't just our achievement—it's a blueprint for industry-wide change."

The ZeniMax QA team unionized in January 2023 following Microsoft's labor neutrality pledge, joining organized groups at Raven Software and Blizzard Albany. Negotiations faced obstacles, including a one-day strike in November 2023 over stalled remote work discussions and alleged outsourcing violations, followed by a strike authorization vote in April addressing compensation concerns.

Union members will vote on ratifying the tentative agreement, with results expected by June 20.