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"If we love this work, we have to protect it" - Hyper Light studio Heart Machine is now a "wall-to-wall" union
Developers at the indie studio Heart Machine, known for games like Hyper Light Drifter and Solar Ash, have unionized with the Communications Workers of America. This move follows recent layoffs and aims to protect workers' rights and workplace conditions. The studio has voluntarily recognized the union, and negotiations for a first contract are expected.
'If we love this work, we have to protect it:' Heart Machine workers secure voluntary union recognition
Employees at Heart Machine, the studio behind Hyper Light Drifter and Solar Ash, have successfully unionized with the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and received voluntary recognition from the company. This move follows recent layoffs and aims to secure better work-life balance, creative autonomy, and job security for developers. The unionization effort at Heart Machine is part of a broader trend of increasing labor organizing within the game industry.
Yves Guillemot: "Changes of this scale naturally raise questions and create tension"
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot acknowledged employee concerns following recent cost-cutting measures and layoffs, stating that such changes naturally create tension. He emphasized the need for transparency and open dialogue while navigating a competitive industry. Guillemot also defended the appointment of his son, Charlie Guillemot, as co-CEO of the Tencent-backed subsidiary Vantage Studios.
