In a major achievement for video game employees, QA workers at Blizzard have ratified a new agreement with Microsoft after nearly three years of negotiations. This milestone promises various benefits, including guaranteed wage increases and protections against excessive work hours.

As the Communications Workers of America, the union representing the staff, outlines, the contract creates more stability for over 60 employees by regulating the use of AI, ensuring fair crediting, and providing accommodations for disabilities. This is seen not just as a win for Blizzard employees but a significant step for all video game workers seeking better working conditions.

Brock Davis, a member of the CWA Albany, commented, “At a time when layoffs are hitting our industry hard, today is another big step in building a better future for videogame workers at every level.” His sentiments were echoed by Matt Gant from CWA Austin, who emphasized that this agreement brings much-needed stability to the QA profession on which future gaming development relies.