Activision Blizzard Testers Form First US Gaming Union
Historic Unionization at Raven Software
Raven Software’s quality assurance (QA) department, primarily focused on the “Call of Duty” franchise under Activision Blizzard, has achieved a landmark accomplishment. They have become the first union established within a major U.S. gaming company.
With support from the Communications Workers of America (CWA), the Raven Software testers initiated the Game Workers Alliance. This alliance aims to enhance working conditions within the video game sector.
Focus on Industry Improvement
The Game Workers Alliance intends to foster a more sustainable and equitable environment. Transparency will be a key principle in their efforts, extending beyond the scope of their own organization.
The newly formed unit, representing 34 employees, is requesting that management formally acknowledge their union. This request comes during a period of significant transition for Activision Blizzard.
Notably, Microsoft recently finalized the acquisition of Activision Blizzard in a deal valued at $68.7 billion – one of the largest acquisitions in tech history.
Controversies and Worker Solidarity
The historic acquisition follows a period of considerable controversy for Activision Blizzard. Ongoing SEC investigations and allegations of sexual harassment have created a challenging internal climate.
In response, employees began building a foundation for worker solidarity through initiatives like the ABK Workers Alliance.
A catalyst for unionization efforts was the layoff of 12 contractors at Raven Software in early December. This prompted the studio’s team in Wisconsin to initiate a walkout, which has now lasted for five weeks.
Sparking the Unionization Discussion
Onah Rongstad, a QA tester at Raven Software, explained to TechCrunch that the layoffs were a pivotal moment.
“Approximately one-third of our department received notice of early contract termination on December 3rd,” she stated. “This occurred after a sustained period of five weeks with consistent overtime work.”
“We came to realize that our daily contributions and vital role in the games industry, specifically in QA, were not being adequately valued. Consequently, we, as Raven QA, decided to strike to demonstrate that we are not simply expendable assets.”
Strike Support and Continued Action
The ABK Workers Alliance leveraged its substantial social media presence to raise over $370,000 through crowdfunding. These funds were used to provide financial assistance to striking workers.
The CWA reported that this strike marked the third work stoppage at Activision Blizzard since the company faced a lawsuit in July 2021 concerning allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct.
Currently, around 20 members of the department continue to participate in the strike, according to Rongstad.
“The duration of the strike remains uncertain, as we have not received direct communication from leadership regarding our demand for the reinstatement of the 12 individuals who were let go,” Rongstad shared. “We are hopeful that we can achieve unionization and secure voluntary recognition to prevent similar situations in the future.”
Microsoft Acquisition and Union Plans
Rongstad clarified that the announcement of Microsoft’s acquisition does not alter the union’s commitment to seeking recognition.
“Our ultimate goal is to collaborate with leadership to establish the most positive and beneficial work environment for all ABK workers,” they told TechCrunch. “We are prepared to work with either the current leadership or Microsoft leadership moving forward.”
Precedent in the Gaming Industry
This level of worker organization is relatively unprecedented in the gaming industry, which has a reputation for overworking employees and implementing large-scale layoffs due to studio closures.
However, just last month, the first voluntarily recognized gaming union in North America was established at the indie studio Vodeo Games, creators of “Beast Breaker.” Vodeo’s union also collaborates with the CWA.
Activision Blizzard’s Response
Activision Blizzard issued a statement to TechCrunch in response to the Game Workers Alliance’s announcement.
The company’s response will determine whether a union election will be necessary. If Activision Blizzard voluntarily recognizes the union, collective bargaining can begin immediately.
If the company declines to recognize the union, the union can request an election through the National Labor Relations Board.
Confidence in Union Support
“We have achieved a supermajority, which is why we requested voluntary recognition,” Rongstad stated. “We are confident that we would prevail in a vote.”
“We are hoping that they will voluntarily recognize the union and demonstrate their support for workers’ rights.”
The Game Workers Alliance has given Activision Blizzard until January 25th to respond to their request for voluntary recognition. Their letter is available for review below.
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Updated on January 21, 2022, at 3:00 PM ET with comments from Activision Blizzard and a Raven Software QA tester.
Further updated on January 21, 2022, at 3:25 PM ET with the Game Workers Alliance’s letter to Activision Blizzard.