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.