The Diablo development team at Blizzard Entertainment has joined the growing trend of unionization among Microsoft employees, with more than 450 developers voting in favor of joining the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

This milestone comes on the heels of significant layoffs at Microsoft in June, prompting employees to seek better compensation, job security, and improved working conditions.

Other Microsoft teams that have formed unions include Blizzard’s story and franchise development unit, as well as staff at ZeniMax Media and Raven Software. Currently, over 3,500 Microsoft employees are part of CWA-organized unions.

Kelly Yeo, a game producer for Diablo and a member of the organizing committee, expressed, “Every round of layoffs has intensified the anxiety among my coworkers, making it evident that no amount of dedication seems to offer us protection. Forming a union fills me with joy—it’s our first step in a broader initiative within the industry that is tired of operating in fear. We are prepared to advocate for meaningful change alongside our Diablo teammates.”

The union encompasses various roles, including developers, artists, designers, engineers, and support staff associated with the Diablo franchise.

Nav Bhatti, a senior software engineer and another organizing committee member, shared, “Throughout my career as a developer, many of us have been subjected to the ‘passion tax’ for being in a field we love. Eventually, you must decide between fighting back or leaving, and forming a union signifies our determination to stand firm in this industry.”

Jason Justice, president of CWA local 9510, stated, “The workers in the Diablo team have demonstrated that California is becoming a focal point for video game worker organizing. This movement is part of a larger narrative aimed at addressing longstanding labor issues in an industry that has often neglected its workforce. Workers in entertainment sectors like film, television, music, and now video games are uniting to demand a voice. Our movement’s strength lies in that solidarity.”

In summary, this news highlights the ongoing efforts within the gaming industry as workers advocate for their rights and better working conditions.