With the burgeoning growth of the gaming industry, studio conditions and job security have increasingly come into the spotlight. A recent wave of layoffs at CD Projekt Red (CDPR) has prompted employees to unionise, aiming to advocate for their rights and establish a firmer standing amidst corporate decisions.

Multiple Layoffs Trigger Unionisation

CD Projekt Red, known for globally acclaimed titles such as “The Witcher” and “Cyberpunk 2077”, has undergone three major layoffs this year. These layoffs became the catalyst for the unionisation movement among the employees. According to the details shared on Gamedevunion and later translated by Eurogamer, talks of unionising began intensively after the 2023 layoffs, during which an alarming 9% of CDPR’s workforce was dismissed.

The company previously justified these layoffs, expressing their intent to foster agility and enhance effectiveness in their teams. They stated that the company was “overstaffed”, leading to these decisions.

Union’s Response to Layoffs

Contrary to the company’s perspective on streamlining their workforce, the union has voiced concerns regarding the emotional and mental strain the layoffs have inflicted on the remaining employees. According to them, the sudden dismissals have seeded insecurity and stress, deteriorating their mental well-being.

Forming a union, in the eyes of these developers, signifies an establishment of security, a promise of transparency, enhanced protection, and most importantly, a louder voice during periods of uncertainty and upheaval.

The union’s stance is clear – while employees are pivotal in generating value for these gaming giants, they often find themselves excluded from significant company decisions. Unionising, thus, is their way to ensure they have a seat at the table, allowing them to negotiate and influence decisions on an equal footing with the management.

Nationwide Union Affiliation and CD Projekt Red’s Outlook

Interestingly, CD Projekt Red’s unionising move isn’t an isolated incident. They have joined forces with the broader nationwide union, OZZ IP, which has been welcoming gaming industry professionals from all over Poland. However, there’s a limitation. CD Projekt Red’s international staff, for instance, those stationed in Vancouver, remain outside the purview of this union.

While the company’s higher-ups are reportedly aware of the union’s formation, they have yet to issue an official response.

Current Projects Amidst Layoffs

Despite the turbulence, CD Projekt Red’s game development hasn’t faltered. They recently launched “Phantom Liberty”, a significant expansion to their iconic “Cyberpunk 2077”. The pipeline also boasts numerous other promising titles – a multiplayer offshoot, a brand-new Witcher trilogy, a complete remake of the original Witcher, and a yet-to-be-revealed new IP.

What’s more heartening for the fans is that the same team that elevated “Cyberpunk 2077” with “Phantom Liberty” will be spearheading its sequel.

Final Thoughts

The unionisation at CD Projekt Red echoes a broader sentiment prevalent in the gaming industry today. As developers strive to create groundbreaking titles, their well-being and job security should be paramount. Unionising can indeed empower these creators, providing them with the necessary tools to advocate for their rights. As fans and consumers, understanding and supporting these movements can lead to a more sustainable and humane gaming industry for all.

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