The move is the latest labor-related defeat for Activision Blizzard.
The Quality Assurance team at Blizzard Albany just voted to unionize. According to Gamesindustry.biz, the vote tally was 14 in favor and none against. Another vote was disqualified while three others were challenged due to mail delays. Activision Blizzard had pushed for a studio-wide vote.
“It took an unbelievable amount of work and perseverance to move this fight forward,” said Blizzard Albany associate test analyst Amanda Deep. “With this victory, we’re advocating for ourselves and each other because we care deeply about our work and the games we make. Organizing has empowered all of us to fight hard for the dignity and respect every worker deserves on the job… We can only hope that our win will continue to grow the labor movement at other video game studios across the country.”
In a statement, Activision Blizzard said that “we are considering all options, with a focus on what is best for all employees and to provide the best games for our millions of players. We still believe our entire Albany team should have the right to vote. This is about fundamental fairness and rights for every member of the team.”
Earlier this year, the Raven Software QA team voted to unionize despite Activision Blizzard’s opposition. The publisher is currently negotiating a contract, which will be the next step for Blizzard Albany as well.
