Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's Unionization Bid: A Response to Industry Instability

The video game industry has experienced significant upheaval in recent years, marked by widespread layoffs and studio closures, including several Bethesda branches. This unpredictability has eroded trust among developers and fans alike regarding job security. Beyond layoffs, the industry grapples with issues like crunch time, discrimination, and the fight for fair compensation. Unionization has emerged as a potential solution for many workers.

Following Vodeo Games' pioneering unionization in North America in 2021, Bethesda Game Studios Montreal has announced its intention to unionize, filing for certification with the Quebec Labour Board. They plan to affiliate with the Canadian branch of the Communications Workers of America (CWA). This move comes amidst concerns surrounding Microsoft's recent closure of four other Bethesda studios, including Tango Gameworks (developers of Hi-Fi Rush).

Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's Unionization Announcement

The closures, particularly Tango Gameworks, have prompted questions from gamers and a lack of complete transparency from Xbox executives. While details remain scarce, hints from Xbox executive Matt Booty suggest Shinji Mikami's departure played a significant role.

Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's unionization effort reflects a broader movement within the industry to improve working conditions and minimize the risk of similar situations. CWA Canada has publicly congratulated the studio, expressing eagerness to collaborate. Bethesda Game Studios Montreal hopes its action will encourage other developers to advocate for better worker rights.