First US union for video game motion capture artists formed at 2K

On March 10, 2026, a historic milestone was reached for game industry workers: the motion capture artists at 2K Games’ Petaluma studio officially approved their first union contract with Take-Two Interactive management. This achievement, nearly two years after voting to unionize in November 2024, marks a significant step in the gaming world. The newly formed union, RPGIATSE (Rights Protections for Games Workers Arm Of The International Alliance Of Theatrical And Stage Employees), is the first U.S. union exclusively for specialized motion capture artists in video games. RPGIATSE is part of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees (IATSE), a longstanding labor organization known for providing resources and support to its members. IATSE’s international president, Matthew Loeb, hailed the agreement as a much-needed victory for the organization.

The Communications Workers of America (CWA) has also been active in organizing the video game industry. According to Calvin Walantus, Sr. Motion Capture Tools Engineer, cooperation played a significant role in securing the first contract quickly. Motion Capture Animator Matthew Peterson credited 2K for their openness to negotiation and honest bargaining. Stage Technician Connor Bredbeck acknowledged that more work is needed to protect the gaming industry from layoffs. The CWA has already established unions at Blizzard Entertainment and id Software. Technical animator Jose Gutierrez, a union member at 2K, commended the company for expediting the agreement process. Bredbeck called the final deal a victory for 2K and the entire video game industry. This contract guarantees improvements to workplace conditions, including: Improved compensation, with a minimum wage, annual increases, and bonuses. Protected benefits and guaranteed leave allowances. A clear promotion structure and enhanced pay for special skills. Protections against staffing changes and subcontracting. Continued work-from-home policies. Stronger crediting practices. Safeguards related to the use of likenesses and artificial intelligence.

Strengthening Motion Capture Worker Power Across North America with IATSE Contract Gains

IATSE intends to leverage the 2K agreement to support motion capture workers across North America seeking stronger representation. IATSE representatives attended the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco from March 9–13, 2026. On March 12, 2026, IATSE hosted an event in Room 203 in the South Hall to discuss the contract gains and the future of worker power in the video game and motion capture industries; all game workers were welcome. More information about this movement can be found at gameworkers.org. Those interested can also take the union’s new Motion Capture Rates and Conditions Survey.

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