Two years, one promise, and a turning point
In 2023, the formation of ZeniMax Workers United-CWA marked a bold step in an uncertain direction. Back then, few believed the quality assurance team could push through the industry’s barriers. But with Microsoft’s neutral pledge in 2024 and ongoing public support, the team’s determination never wavered.
Now, their efforts have culminated in a breakthrough: a tentative labor agreement covering more than 300 QA workers—those often-invisible contributors who ensure every bug is caught before a game reaches the public.
From invisible to indispensable
This contract is more than just ink on paper. It’s a declaration that QA workers matter. They may not design the characters or write the code, but they stand guard at the final gate of quality. The new agreement recognizes their role not just in the production cycle, but also in the creative identity of the games they help ship.
According to the Communication Workers of America (CWA), the contract includes sweeping wage increases, a new wage floor, protections from AI displacement, and—significantly—formal recognition of QA contributions, from inclusion in game credits to participation in development decisions.
“We Build These Games”
Jessee Leese, a QA tester and member of the bargaining committee, summed it up with striking clarity:
“Gaming is a billion-dollar industry, but the people behind it have been ignored for too long. Now, we’re finally being heard.”
To Leese, this contract isn’t just a win for ZeniMax—it’s a call to action for workers across the gaming world. “You are not alone,” they said. “Collective action can make a difference.”
A new wave on the horizon
Although the agreement still awaits final ratification, its significance reverberates far beyond ZeniMax. Other Microsoft-owned studios with QA teams—like Raven Software, Activision, and Overwatch—are also in various stages of union dialogue. The ZeniMax deal could serve as a template for future negotiations.
Meanwhile, CWA has launched a broader initiative, United Game Workers-CWA, a new open union model that welcomes freelancers, laid-off workers, and contractors—regardless of whether they’re currently employed by a major studio.
From the shadows to the spotlight
Once a name known only to insiders, ZeniMax has now emerged as a symbol of justice in the game development world. Their story is one of solidarity, resilience, and the belief that passion shouldn’t come at the cost of dignity. In an industry built on dreams, ZeniMax workers are making sure those dreams don’t leave anyone behind.