Microsoft has recognized the union formed by over 450 developers across various roles within the Diablo team, all of whom voted strongly in favor of union representation. This marks the fourth major team at Blizzard to unionize under the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

“With every subsequent round of mass layoffs, I’ve witnessed the dread in my coworkers grow stronger because it feels like no amount of hard work is enough to protect us,” said producer Kelly Yeo. “I am overjoyed that we have formed a union—this is just the first step for us joining a movement spreading across an industry that is tired of living in fear.”

Since Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion in 2023, more than 3,000 jobs across its studios have been eliminated, with recent layoffs sparking numerous concerns among developers. The Diablo team’s unionization comes amidst significant press coverage of job security and corporate consolidation issues.

The union aims to address various pressing topics such as the use of AI, adequate compensation, and improved working conditions. Organizers are gathering member feedback to prioritize concerns before entering negotiations for their first contract.

An industry-wide movement appears to be underway as multiple teams within Blizzard, as well as other Activision studios, have recently embraced unionization.