ZeniMax Online Workers Union Responds to Microsoft Cuts
Jonathan Dubinski 
Key Takeaways
Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark
- Microsofts job cuts have affected approximately 9,000 developers across multiple studios, including ZeniMax Online Studios, Rare, and Turn10.
- The cancellation of Project Blackbird at ZeniMax Online Studios has directly impacted 22 unionized developers, who remain employed but are currently in negotiations with Microsoft regarding their future.
- ZeniMax Online Studios Director Matt Firor departed the company following the layoffs.
- The wider impact of Microsofts cuts includes the cancellation of projects like Everwild and the closure of studios such as The Initiative, prompting ZeniMax Online Studios Workers Union (ZOSU) to continue advocating for its members during negotiations with Microsoft amidst these industry changes.
Microsoft’s Job Cuts Impact ZeniMax Online Studios Union Members and Future Negotiations
Microsoft’s announced job cuts have impacted approximately 9,000 developers across various studios, including ZeniMax Online Studios, Rare, and Turn10. In response to these widespread reductions, the ZeniMax Online Workers Union issued a statement. At ZeniMax Online Studios, Microsoft canceled “Project Blackbird,” an unannounced massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG). This decision directly affected 22 unionized developers. While their specific project work has ceased, these developers remain employed by ZeniMax Online Studios, receiving full pay and benefits. ZeniMax Online Studios United (ZOSU), a union formed in December 2021 with 461 employees, represents web developers, designers, engineers, and graphic artists at the studio. ZOSU is currently in negotiations with Microsoft regarding the future of these affected employees. Although layoffs may be on the horizon for some, the union works to ensure all affected individuals receive respectful and dignified treatment throughout this process. Following the layoffs, ZeniMax Online Studios Director Matt Firor departed the company. The wider impact of Microsoft’s cuts extends to other studios and projects. Microsoft also canceled Rare’s Everwild and The Initiative’s Perfect Dark reboot. Additionally, The Initiative studio has ceased operations. ZOSU continues to advocate for its members as negotiations with Microsoft proceed amidst these significant industry changes.
In Case You Missed It
For those interested in the latest developments in the gaming industry and the challenges faced by major players like Microsoft, be sure to check out Carlos Mendoza’s insightful analysis titled “Xbox: Studio Closures, Unprofitable Game Pass, Advancing Towards a Preemptively Lost Strategy?” published on May 12th. The piece delves into the complexities surrounding Xbox’s recent strategic missteps and the financial strain imposed by its Game Pass service. Readers will gain valuable insights into how these issues are affecting both the company’s image and the morale of developers within acquired studios. Don’t miss this critical look at Microsoft’s current challenges; Xbox: Studio Closures, Unprofitable Game Pass, Advancing Towards a Preemptively Lost Strategy?.
About the Author
Marcus Thompson 
Sophie Laurent 
Carlos Mendoza 
Ahmed Hassan 
