Games

Overwatch 2 team unionizes: “When workers come together to build power, we become able to ensure a brighter future for all.”

BBG News

Microsoft also recognized the Overwatch 2 union.

2025 saw the team responsible for creating Overwatch 2 become union members with the Communications Workers of America (CWA). This unionization was officially announced on May 9, approximately 200 developers will now be part of CWA Local 9510 in Orange County.

Overwatch 2 union

Workers established the Overwatch Game Creators Guild – Communication Workers of America (OWGC-CWA), an extensive labor union encompassing all areas of game development such as design, manufacturing, programming, visual arts, audio production, and quality testing.

As per the formal declaration, a significant number of employees either opted for union representation by signing a union petition or expressed their desire for it, thereby enabling the formation. Similarly, Microsoft – having taken over Activision Blizzard in 2023 – acknowledged the union for Overwatch 2.

Jess Castillo, both a senior test analyst and a member of the organizing committee, stated that the initiative to arrange this event stemmed from a powerful conviction in our company, the teams, and the joint efforts we are engaged in. The act of unionizing is viewed as a means to secure a place at the decision-making table and work closely with management to establish long-term working conditions that are beneficial for everyone.

In essence, when we feel well-backed and flourishing, we’re able to offer the finest gaming experiences to our players – a goal that initially drew us all together, as Castillo emphasized.

Overwatch 2 union’s impact on the gaming industry

Currently, approximately 2,600 employees across Microsoft’s owned studios have united under the Communication Workers of America (CWA) union. By joining forces in a union, they can collectively push for enhancements like job security during layoffs, better wages, protections for remote work, and numerous other benefits.

Frank Le Cocq, a visual effects artist, expressed his views on the topic. The large-scale job cuts in the video game industry, including at my own studio, sparked him to educate himself about how to establish a more balanced work environment for all. He stated that when they initiated union efforts, it was inspiring to learn that their colleagues working on World of Warcraft had already successfully navigated this process.

In the meantime, Jason Justice, head of CWA Local 9510, pointed out that California continues to be a significant center for video game labor unions. He warmly invited the creators of Overwatch 2 to join their union, alongside workers from World of Warcraft and SEGA of America.

When employees unite to strengthen their influence, they empower themselves to create a more promising future for everyone, as Justice pointed out.

The recent declaration about unionization within OWGG-CWA for Overwatch 2 marks a significant step forward in labor organization movements happening throughout the tech and gaming sectors.

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2025-05-10 06:16

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