“With this victory, we’re advocating for ourselves and each other because we care deeply about our work and the games we make,” said Amanda Deep, associate test analyst at Blizzard Albany, in a CWA press release celebrating the win. “Our colleagues at Raven inspired us when they announced the formation of the Game Workers Alliance / CWA. We can only hope that our win will continue to grow the labor movement at other video game studios across the country.”
In a statement to The Verge, Activision spokesperson Joe Christinat said, “We are considering all options, with a focus on what is best for all employees and to provide the best games for our millions of players. We still believe our entire Albany team should have the right to vote. This is about fundamental fairness and rights for every member of the team.”
Now both parties have five days to file objections, and if none are filed, GWA Albany will start the bargaining process as it and Activision Blizzard attempt to form a contract. Raven Software’s union has been involved in the contract process for over a year now.
Update December 2nd, 1:20 PM ET: Added statements from Activision Blizzard and a member of GWA Albany.