Double Fine Productions has become the newest subsidiary of Microsoft to form a union

Double Fine Productions, known for its work on the "Psychonauts" series, has filed a request to unionize, supported by the Communications Workers of America (CWA). The action was officially submitted to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on May 7, seeking Microsoft’s voluntary recognition. The proposed union will encompass 42 employees, both part-time and full-time.

The CWA explained that the goal behind Double Fine's unionization is to uphold and advance their dedication to creativity, diversity, inclusion, and a high quality of life for workers. "We are grateful for Microsoft's neutral stance, as they have permitted workers to organize independently."

In 2022, Microsoft signed a labor neutrality agreement with the CWA amid the ongoing acquisition process of Activision Blizzard, facilitating unionization without NLRB procedures. However, this agreement will end in October 2025. Juniper Dowell, a senior QA tester and union representative at ZeniMax Bethesda, expressed the desire to forge a new neutrality agreement to ensure a smooth unionization process.

Several Microsoft-related entities have achieved unionization since 2022. Notably, Raven Software became the first prominent video game union in the U.S. Other studios that have unionized include Activision QA, Bethesda Game Studios, World of Warcraft development teams, and several others within the Blizzard and Activision network.

In April, the CWA reported a standstill in union negotiations with Microsoft, indicated by statements from Autumn Mitchell, a member of ZeniMax Workers United and a senior QA tester. "There's a different narrative at the negotiation table, contrasting Microsoft's public image as an amiable employer," Mitchell remarked. "Our union is determined to secure a contract, even if it means considering a strike."

Microsoft acquired Double Fine Productions in 2019, in a deal valued at $13.2 million. The studio was initially founded by Tim Schafer, a veteran in the gaming industry, after he left LucasArts in 2000.