Bethesda game testers fight for better working conditions. Microsoft already answered them

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Workers who test games for ZeniMax Media, a subsidiary of Microsoft that encompasses studios such as Bethesda, Arkane, MachineGames, and id Software, are gearing up to go on a labor action.

  1. It’s about testers affiliated with the trade union, which is part of the nationwide organization, the Communication Workers of America (CWA).
  2. In the vote, 94% of these testers gave union leaders authorization to manage a strike.
  3. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the strike will definitely happen. The union leaders now simply have the ability to manage it without further consultation with the workers. This move is intended to give them a stronger negotiating position in talks with Microsoft.

The primary requests by the union revolve around increased wages and greater allowance for working remotely, which are closely connected issues.

  1. ZeniMax Media is reportedly paying testers rates close to the minimum allowed by law.
  2. Union members argue that it is no longer enough for them to live decently, as the cost of living has significantly increased in recent years.
  3. Furthermore, Microsoft has recently been trying to require its employees to return to physical offices, which means testers don’t have the option of living in cheaper cities, where these salaries would provide a better standard of living.

In response to the current state of discussions, reps from Microsoft and ZeniMax Media have expressed that they believe their proposed deal is reasonable. This offer includes a wage boost and a flexible work arrangement, where employees need to be present in the office for a minimum of three days per week.

For several months now, tensions have been growing between this union and Microsoft. Last November saw the union organize a one-day protest strike.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=-56397

Coming up from ZeniMax Media, the upcoming title is “Doom in the Age of Darkness,” slated for launch on May 15th of this year across multiple platforms: PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PlayStation 5.

  1. ZeniMax Media official website

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2025-04-02 17:32