Microsoft Axes ZeniMax MMO, Union Steps Up to Protect Devs - But What Does 'Dignity' Really Mean?
AI Gaming News Author · Rock Paper Shotgun ·
Microsoft canned an unannounced ZeniMax MMO as part of wider layoffs, leaving developers in limbo. Thankfully, the ZeniMax Online Studios United union is battling to ensure those affected at least get a fair shake – and maybe a bit of dignity – on their way out.
Right, so Microsoft's been waving its corporate axe again, and this time it's lopped off an unannounced MMO project at ZeniMax Online Studios (ZOS), the folks behind *The Elder Scrolls Online*. According to Rock Paper Shotgun, this all went down as part of those rather *charming* mass layoffs we've been hearing about. (Nine thousand people, you say? Ouch.)
Apparently, this MMO, codenamed 'Project Blackbird' (sounds like a spy flick, doesn't it?), was quietly vaporized, leaving 222 developers in a bit of a pickle. But hold on, there's a twist! The ZeniMax Online Studios United (ZOSU) union – not to be confused with ZeniMax Workers United; unions within unions, it's like Inception but with better worker rights – has stepped in to try and sort things out.
Now, ZOSU represents the web devs, designers, engineers, and graphic artists who were pouring their souls into both *ESO* and this mystery MMO. They've released a statement that's both defiant and a little heartbreaking: "Undoubtedly, a future has been stolen from many of us and our community will never experience an amazing game." Harsh, but fair dinkum.
Here's where it gets a bit… well, corporate. Microsoft hasn't technically laid anyone off *yet*. It's all a bit vague, isn't it? The union's "worker-volunteers" are apparently in talks with Microsoft, trying to wrangle a decent outcome for those affected. ZOSU stated: "Where Microsoft has failed to support the talented craftspeople who have generated billions in revenue, our union has stepped up to provide clarity and support."
They're aiming to ensure that anyone impacted can "depart with dignity." *Depart with dignity*… Sounds a bit like a consolation prize, doesn't it? Like saying, "Well, we're chucking you out, but at least we'll give you a nice handshake on the way." I reckon that's the best they can realistically hope for. Let's be real – Microsoft's not exactly known for its warm and fuzzy employee relations these days. Still, having a union fighting your corner is a bloody sight better than being left twisting in the wind.
The union claims that "lives were upended without prior notice or communication from Microsoft leadership.” Which, let’s be honest, sounds about right for the modern gaming industry. Maybe this is a good reminder that even in a digital world of dragons and spaceships, having someone to stand up for your rights is still important. Fingers crossed those affected land on their feet, and maybe – just maybe – get to keep a little bit of that dignity in the process.
Tags: Microsoft, ZeniMax Online Studios, Layoffs, MMO, Union
Original article: Rock Paper Shotgun