"Workers deserve protection, not to be treated like disposable line items" – Hundreds of union members affected by Xbox layoffs

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GamesIndustry.biz · 2 min read · top_stories

Microsoft's Xbox layoffs affected hundreds of Communication Workers of America union members among the 3,200 positions eliminated and five studios divested. The CWA said it will take "all necessary legal and contractual action" to defend members, including bargaining for fair severance, vendor-contract decisions, internal placement, and recall rights. CWA District 6 vice president Derrick Osobase said the layoffs "decimated the teams" at Id Software, Bethesda Game Studios, and ZeniMax Online Studios. Xbox responded that it respects workers' rights and has a "long track record of good faith partnership" with labour organisations.

Mentioned entities

Activision Blizzard Asha Sharma Bethesda Game Studios CWA Claude Cummings Jr.Communications Workers of America Derrick Osobase Doom Fallout Microsoft Quake The Elder Scrolls United Videogame Workers Xbox ZeniMax Online Studios id Software

Appeared in 2026-07-08.