New VIDEO GAME WORKERS UNION Launches at GDC, Gains Members Fast

The United Video Game Workers union (UVW) was unveiled during GDC 2025 as the gaming industry faces ongoing layoffs, leaving many talented individuals struggling for stable work. Established in collaboration with the Communications Workers of America (CWA), UVW aims to advocate for worker rights and job security, specifically for those impacted by layoffs. The union has already gathered over 100 sign-ups within the first 24 hours, showcasing initial support. Prominent figures within both CWA and UVW express the collective’s goal of empowering video game workers against corporate greed and promoting sustainable labor practices in the industry. This development follows previous efforts like Game Workers Unite and CODE-CWA, highlighting a crucial shift toward unionization among gaming professionals as they seek better treatment and recognition.

The United Video Game Workers union is a new collective created to advocate for the rights of video game industry workers, particularly in light of recent layoffs. It aims to secure job security and better working conditions for developers, emphasizing unity in a time of need.

The establishment of the UVW comes at a pivotal time in the video game industry. With gaming studios increasingly merging and downsizing, the importance of collective bargaining is becoming more apparent. This union reflects an organized response to the growing instability many workers face in a landscape dominated by corporate interests. With continued efforts from unions like SAG-AFTRA advocating for fair treatment of voice actors, the UVW is part of a broader movement for labor rights in gaming. As the industry evolves, the need for representation becomes ever more critical, and the formation of UVW signifies a vital step towards protecting the workforce behind popular games.