According to a statement from the union, CD Projekt Red developers have formed a union called the Polish Gamedev Workers Union (PGWU). This move comes as game developers across the industry have been organizing unions to address poor working conditions and excessive crunch hours. The PGWU aims to promote job security, fair treatment, and transparency through mutual support, education, and open communication with employers.
The union is an independent section under OZZ Inicjatywa Pracownicza, a trade union based in Poland. It encourages workers of all employment classifications and specialties to join. The goal is not to start a fight but to initiate a dialogue with employers and become a strong voice for workers’ interests.
This development follows the recent success of CD Projekt Red’s game, Cyberpunk 2077, which has seen increased sales and a resurgence of player interest. However, the gaming industry as a whole has been marred by long working hours, low pay, and hostile conditions for its employees.
Unionization efforts have been on the rise in the gaming industry. The American VALORANT Player’s Association and the League of Legends professional player’s association were established in 2022. Raven Software employees won a union election in the same year, and Avalanche Studios, the publisher of the Just Cause series, also saw a unionization effort. Cards Against Humanity set a precedent for unionization in the gaming industry in 2020.
As the gaming industry continues to grow and generate massive profits, it is crucial for workers to protect their livelihoods and fight for better conditions. The lack of worker protections in the industry is a stark contrast to the movie industry, despite gaming being a larger market. It is expected that more studios will follow suit and join the unionization movement to advocate for improved working conditions.
Source: DOTESPORTS
