Microsoft Layoffs Hit Bethesda, Obsidian, And Id Hard As Workers Brace For More
Microsoft has initiated a new round of 1,600 layoffs within its gaming division, impacting major studios including Bethesda, Obsidian, and id Software. Despite unionization efforts, employees across these studios are facing significant job losses and uncertainty regarding the future of their projects.
Why it matters
These layoffs reflect ongoing instability in the video game industry and highlight the challenges faced by labor unions in the tech and gaming sectors.
Today Microsoft laid off 1,600 people from its games division— roughly the same number it unceremoniously showed the door last year. As part of this, the company is cutting loose four studios either via independence or new ownership, with one more, Arkane, now in a period of required consultation due to French labor laws. But that still leaves over a thousand on the chopping block today with an additional 1,600 in the coming year. Workers are overwhelmed, disheartened, and unsure how anyone could make good video games under these conditions.
The article focuses heavily on the negative impact on workers and the failure of union protections, reflecting a labor-centric perspective.
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