Developers at Wizards of the Coast working on Magic: The Gathering Arena have filed to unionize with the Communications Workers of America (CWA), citing fears over layoffs, shifting remote work policies, and the growing use of generative AI in the workplace.
The group, which includes designers, artists, and engineers, hopes to secure stronger job protections and a voice in decisions that affect their working conditions. "The uncertainty around layoffs and the push toward AI-driven content creation have made it clear we need a seat at the table," said one developer who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Organizers say the move is a direct response to recent industry trends, including a wave of layoffs at major game studios and the increasing adoption of generative AI tools for art and game design. The union would cover around 30 employees and be part of the larger CWA, which has organized workers at other tech and gaming companies.
Wizards of the Coast, a subsidiary of Hasbro, has not yet commented on the filing. If successful, the union would negotiate contracts covering wages, hours, and other conditions.
This effort marks another step in the broader labor organizing movement within the video game industry, where workers have sought to address job security and ethical concerns over emerging technologies.