Fallout 4: The Union Uprising

Unionised Microsoft Workers Rally Against Mass Layoffs

On July 15th, unionised Microsoft workers are set to gather outside Xbox-owned studios in a series of co-ordinated rallies to protest the recent mass layoffs initiated by the company. The Communications Workers of America union (CWA) reported that over 400 union-represented jobs across Bethesda Game Studios, ZeniMax, and id Software are being cut. In a show of solidarity, modders have been incorporating union logos into Bethesda games, with Skyrim being the first and Fallout 4 the most recent.

Protests Across North America

The CWA-organised protests are scheduled to occur in six locations across North America. These locations include Microsoft’s campus in Redmond, ZeniMax studios in Austin and Rockville, the id Software studio in Dallas, Obsidian Entertainment’s HQ in Irvine, and a rally outside of Montreal’s Victoria Square Park in Canada. Specific start times for each march can be found at the RSVP links provided for each location.

“As Microsoft undergoes restructuring, the workers behind its biggest franchises deserve protection and respect, not to be treated as expendable entities,” stated Derrick Osobase, vice president of the CWA’s District 6, in response to the recent layoffs. He emphasized the crucial role of CWA members in developing popular games and expressed concerns that the layoffs would impact the quality and release timelines of iconic games, ultimately affecting players and Microsoft’s revenue.

The bosses are stealing our game industry, and we aim to take it back! We’re calling game workers, allies, and fans alike to join emergency rallies on WEDNESDAY, JULY 15th!

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For those unable to attend the rallies but wishing to show support for the workers, modders have created ways to demonstrate solidarity within Fallout 4. Modders have added pro-union elements such as protest signs, union-logoed vault suits, and banners/posters to the RPG to advocate for the workers affected by the layoffs.

Similar to the mod created for Skyrim, these additions allow streamers, YouTubers, and players to voice their support and disapproval of Microsoft’s actions while spreading awareness of the union’s efforts to resist corporate decisions.

Support and solidarity are extended to all individuals participating in or backing the CWA rallies.