ZeniMax Workers United has provisionally agreed on terms with Microsoft

ZeniMax Workers United and Microsoft have reached a preliminary deal after two years of discussions.

According to Bloomberg, the deal proposes a 13.5% salary raise effective July 1, 2025, along with new baseline salaries. The agreement outlined by the Communication Workers of America includes protections against unjust dismissals, a transparent grievance process, and credit recognition for quality assurance personnel.

The agreement further solidifies a prior understanding concerning the use of artificial intelligence in the company. Microsoft characterized the contract as a noteworthy advancement, emphasizing a joint effort to cultivate a constructive work environment.

Jessee Leese, a ZeniMax QA tester and a member of the bargaining committee for ZWU-CWA, commented on the value of unions: "Video games have significantly contributed to the entertainment sector's revenue for years, yet the industry’s creators frequently face exploitation. Through unionization and collective bargaining, workers reclaim control. Our inaugural contract encourages game developers globally to advocate for fair treatment. As creators of these games, it is our responsibility to set equitable standards."

CWA president Claude Cummings Jr. noted: "The video game sector is demonstrating the efficacy of collective action. This contract exemplifies the potential achieved when workers unite and challenge the existing system. Our members have pioneered advancements in bargaining for AI governance, wage augmentation, and safeguards against workplace retaliation, and we proudly support their endeavors."

In 2023, the ZWU-CWA was established, encompassing over 300 QA employees at ZeniMax locations in the U.S. By May 2024, ZeniMax Studio staff were formally covered under Microsoft's agreement for labor neutrality with CWA, ensuring a neutral stance from Microsoft on union activities.

Last December, a group of 461 employees at ZeniMax Online Studios formed the ZOS United-CWA union. Similarly, nearly 250 developers from Bethesda Game Studios joined the union in the previous year.