Bethesda Montreal Unionization Effort Breaks Ground

Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's recent unionization bid reflects growing unrest within the video game industry. The past year and a half has seen significant upheaval, marked by widespread layoffs and studio closures, even impacting seemingly successful developers. This unpredictability has eroded trust in job security.

Beyond layoffs, the industry grapples with issues like excessive "crunch" periods, discrimination, and unfair wages. Unionization has emerged as a potential solution. Vodeo Games' 2021 unionization in North America paved the way, and now, Bethesda Game Studios Montreal is following suit.

The studio announced its application for certification with the Quebec Labour Board, aiming to join the Canadian Communications Workers of America (CWA). This move is unsurprising given recent industry trends, including Xbox's closure of four other Bethesda studios.

Bethesda Game Studios Montreal Unionization Announcement

Xbox's closure of studios, including Tango Gameworks (creators of Hi-Fi Rush), has sparked considerable fan outcry and unanswered questions. While executives have been tight-lipped, hints suggest Shinji Mikami's departure played a significant role.

Bethesda Game Studios Montreal's unionization effort represents a proactive step by developers to safeguard against similar future events and improve working conditions. CWA Canada has publicly congratulated the studio, expressing eagerness for collaboration. Bethesda Game Studios Montreal hopes to inspire other developers to advocate for enhanced worker rights within the industry.