The developers of Overwatch 2 have established a union to provide better protection against unexpected layoffs and inequitable wages. This movement reflects a growing trend of unionization within the global gaming industry, with Blizzard’s Team 4 being one of the latest to join this wave. The formation of the union was motivated by past controversies surrounding Blizzard and significant layoffs at Microsoft.
The newly formed Overwatch Gamemakers Guild comprises nearly 200 developers, including artists, engineers, and designers who work on Overwatch 2. The guild has allied with the Communications Workers of America (CWA), aiming to enhance job security and address various workplace issues that players and developers face. Unions are collectives of workers who unite to advocate for better pay, work conditions, and rights against employers.
While unions have a long history, they are a relatively new phenomenon in the video game industry, with the United Videogame Workers emerging as a noteworthy example in recent years. Blizzard has also announced an Overwatch 2 collaboration with Street Fighter 6, introducing exciting new content for fans of both franchises. The Overwatch Gamemakers Guild represents a significant step for Team 4, as it includes a comprehensive range of non-executive developers.
Although the union may not provide complete assurance against layoffs, it offers a platform for developers to advocate for themselves. The move towards unionization was influenced by issues such as harassment allegations against a prominent executive and growing concerns about pay disparities and return-to-office policies. Most critically, the massive layoffs at Blizzard in early 2024 were a catalyst, prompting developers to recognize the need for collective action.
The establishment of the Overwatch 2 union follows closely on the heels of the World of Warcraft Gamemakers Guild formed by over 500 employees in July 2024. With this new union, Team 4 is now tasked with negotiating its first contract, a challenging process that could shape the future of labor relations within the gaming industry. As Sadie Boyd articulated, “Our industry is at such a turning point…
I know that will light some fires.”