How Unions Can Help Address Crunch Time in the Video Game Industry
The video game industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, with millions of people across the globe playing games daily – they need unions. Behind the scenes, the industry is plagued with issues, one of which is “crunch time.” This term refers to a period where developers and other professionals in the industry work extended hours to meet tight deadlines, often leading to burnout and mental health issues.
Crunch time has been a significant problem in the video game industry for decades, but it wasn’t until 2018 when the issue gained mainstream attention. The controversy around crunch time began with reports that Rockstar Games, the developers of the game “Red Dead Redemption 2,” were forcing employees to work 100-hour workweeks to complete the game on time.
It's time to unionize
Since then, several other developers have come forward with similar stories, sparking a conversation around the need for change in the industry. Unions could be the solution that the industry needs to address the issue of crunch time.
A union is an organization formed by workers to protect their rights and interests in the workplace. Unions are commonly found in manufacturing and construction industries, but they are not as prevalent in the video game industry. However, with the increasing scrutiny around crunch time, unions may become more relevant than ever before.
One of the main benefits of unions is that they provide a collective voice for workers. In the video game industry, developers and other professionals often work long hours without any say in the matter. Unions can help ensure that workers have a say in their working conditions, including the hours they work and the deadlines they are expected to meet. This would give workers a greater sense of control over their work and help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with crunch time.
Union benefits
Unions can also negotiate better pay and benefits for workers. Many developers in the video game industry work on a contract basis, meaning they are not entitled to the same benefits as full-time employees. Unions can help negotiate better pay and benefits for all workers, regardless of their employment status. This would help alleviate financial stress and make it easier for workers to take care of their physical and mental health.
Another way unions can help address crunch time is by promoting a better work-life balance. Many developers in the video game industry work long hours and weekends, leaving them with little time to spend with their families and friends or engage in hobbies outside of work. Unions can help ensure that workers have a reasonable work schedule that allows them to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This would help reduce burnout and improve the mental health of workers.
Unions can also help promote diversity and inclusion in the video game industry. The industry has been criticized for its lack of diversity, particularly in terms of gender and race. Unions can help ensure that all workers, regardless of their background, are treated fairly and have equal opportunities for career advancement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, unions could be the solution that the video game industry needs to address the issue of crunch time. Unions provide a collective voice for workers, negotiate better pay and benefits, promote a better work-life balance, and promote diversity and inclusion. These benefits would not only improve the working conditions of developers and other professionals in the industry but also help reduce the negative impact of crunch time on their physical and mental health. If the video game industry is serious about addressing crunch time, it may be time to start considering the benefits of unions.
United we bargain, divided we beg.