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ZeniMax employees respond to Microsoft's mass layoffs

Workers criticize the handling of layoffs, calling the process inhumane.

July 23, 2025 at 11:26 AM
blur ZeniMax staff discuss Microsoft's "inhumane" mass layoffs and how the future looks for the "carcass of workers that remains"

ZeniMax employees share their distress following Microsoft's recent mass layoffs.

ZeniMax workers criticize Microsoft's mass layoffs as inhumane

A recent report reveals strong reactions from ZeniMax employees regarding Microsoft's recent mass layoffs affecting approximately 9,000 staff. The atmosphere at the Elder Scrolls Online studio has been described as chaotic, with many workers feeling confused and distraught. The layoffs led to the cancellation of several projects, including an unannounced MMO called Project Blackbird. Workers express frustration over the abruptness of their removal from company communications before official notifications were made. Union members at ZeniMax have voiced their concerns, highlighting the impact on team morale and productivity.

Key Takeaways

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ZeniMax workers label layoffs as inhumane and chaotic.
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Many felt confused after being cut from company communications.
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Union members are fighting for those left in uncertainty.
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The abruptness of layoffs added to employee distress.
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Key projects, including Project Blackbird, were canceled.
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Workers emphasize the human impact of corporate decisions.

"It was so sad seeing people so distraught and confused and not knowing if they would have a job by the end of the day."

A ZeniMax worker shares their feelings about the layoffs' impact on morale.

"I don't care how many times they do it to try and make it seem normal — it's not."

A senior QA tester criticizes the company's approach to layoffs.

"Everyone left now has to pick up the pieces as best they can, but the morale and general confusion has extended into our workflow."

A worker reflects on the impact of losing key colleagues on team morale.

"This carcass of workers that remains is somehow supposed to keep shipping award-winning games."

An emotionally charged comment on the challenges facing the remaining staff.

The backlash from ZeniMax workers reflects a growing trend in corporate America where layoffs are often impersonal and abrupt. This incident raises critical questions about employee treatment and corporate ethics. With many employees fearing for their futures and grappling with the loss of key colleagues, the situation demands attention. It may also serve as a wake-up call for companies to reconsider how they manage such transitions, especially in light of union efforts to protect workers. The emotional toll of these layoffs highlights a broader issue within tech industries and beyond where jobs can become numbers on a spreadsheet, rather than lives with stories and contributions.

Highlights

  • The way they do it is inhumane.
  • Making it so that people have to rush to say goodbye is disgusting.
  • A lot of practical knowledge just disappeared overnight.
  • This carcass of workers is supposed to keep shipping award-winning games.

Risk of backlash over treatment of laid-off employees

The manner of layoffs has resulted in strong emotional responses from current employees, raising potential reputational risks for Microsoft. This situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding corporate ethics and employee treatment, especially in industries facing economic pressures.

As the tech industry evolves, employee treatment remains a critical concern.

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