What's Happening?
ZA/UM, the studio behind the acclaimed game Disco Elysium, has established the first recognized workers union in the UK gaming industry. The union, supported by the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB), aims to empower employees to negotiate workplace issues such as mental health, financial stability, and social livelihoods. This development marks a significant milestone for labor rights within the gaming sector, providing a model for other studios seeking to improve working conditions.
Why It's Important?
The formation of a recognized union at ZA/UM represents a pivotal moment for labor rights in the gaming industry, which has faced criticism for its working conditions. By establishing a formal structure for negotiation, the union can address issues that have historically plagued the industry, such as crunch time and job security. This move could inspire other studios to follow suit, potentially leading to widespread improvements in the industry's labor practices and setting a precedent for collective bargaining in creative sectors.