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ZeniMax Online devs face layoffs amid Microsoft cuts

Almost all developers who worked on the cancelled Blackbird MMO are losing their jobs.

July 15, 2025 at 08:27 PM

ZeniMax Online devs will reportedly soon be hit by Microsoft layoffs

Layoffs at Microsoft are expected to significantly affect ZeniMax Online Studios amid union negotiations.

Microsoft layoffs impact developers at ZeniMax Online Studios

Microsoft's recent layoffs of 9,000 employees are set to impact developers at ZeniMax Online Studios, specifically those who were working on the cancelled MMORPG codenamed Blackbird. Reports indicate that almost all developers involved in the project will lose their jobs as negotiations for severance packages continue with their union, ZeniMax Online Studios United-CWA. Social media discussions have led to confusion, but a key detail is that these layoffs have not been formally executed yet. The union has stated that while workers remain temporarily employed, their future is uncertain as they navigate the severance process.

Key Takeaways

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Nearly all developers on Blackbird are likely to be laid off soon.

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Union negotiations for severance are ongoing but uncertain.

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This situation reflects broader issues of workplace stability in the gaming industry.

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ZeniMax's union is actively negotiating to support affected employees.

"Yes, there will be layoffs for some of our members in the future."

This highlights the risks faced by ZeniMax employees amidst negotiations.

"Undoubtedly, a future has been stolen from many of us."

This expresses the emotional impact of the project's cancellation on developers.

The situation at ZeniMax highlights the challenges faced by workers in the gaming industry, particularly in times of corporate restructuring. With many developers facing layoffs, the importance of union representation becomes clear. The union's efforts to negotiate dignified severance packages is a positive step, yet it underscores the vulnerability of employees in the entertainment sector, where project cancellations can lead to immediate job losses. As the industry evolves, this event could spark broader discussions on job security and worker protections in gaming.

Highlights

The layoff uncertainty looms large over the developers' future.
Workers fight for dignity in a landscape of layoffs.
Union negotiations are crucial in these tough times.
Almost all developers face job loss after Blackbird's cancellation.

Major layoffs threaten job security for ZeniMax developers

The ongoing layoffs at Microsoft are especially concerning for ZeniMax Online Studios, where nearly all developers on Blackbird are expected to lose their jobs. This situation raises serious issues about job security and support for workers in a volatile industry.

This incident serves as a reminder of the precarious nature of employment in the gaming industry.

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microsoft zenimax layoffs gaming union gaming business employment

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