First Ubisoft Union in North America Certified at Halifax Studio

Video game workers at Ubisoft Halifax have made history. Approximately 60 employees have successfully unionized, creating the first Ubisoft union in North America. The Nova Scotia Labour Board granted certification on December 18, 2025. This landmark move signals a major shift for workers in the gaming industry.

The union drive succeeded with overwhelming staff support. Workers cited a desire for greater job security and stability amidst widespread industry layoffs. This certification is seen as a pivotal moment for labor organizing in the tech and gaming sectors.

A New Chapter for Game Developer Rights

The newly certified union includes producers, programmers, designers, and artists. They will be represented by CWA Canada Local 30111. This local already represents workers at Bethesda Game Studios Montreal, forming a growing bloc of unionized game developers.

According to reports, 74% of voting staff supported union certification. The process began with a filing on June 18, 2025. The six-month journey to certification concluded just before the end of the year, giving workers a significant victory.

Industry analysts see this as a direct response to recent turbulence. Major publishers have announced thousands of job cuts globally. Unionization offers a structured way for workers to negotiate for their futures.

Goals and Expected Impact of the Union

Workers have stated they seek to partner with Ubisoft management. Their goal is to make the Halifax studio a “beacon of equity, excellence, and innovation.” They believe a formal collective voice will help secure fair working conditions and creative respect.

Key negotiation points will likely include job protection, compensation, and benefits. The union also aims to address “crunch culture,” the industry term for prolonged periods of intense overtime before game launches. A collective agreement could set new standards for work-life balance in game development.

This move puts pressure on other major game studios. It demonstrates that organizing is possible even within large, multinational corporations. The outcome of the first contract negotiations will be closely watched across the industry.

The formation of the Ubisoft Halifax union marks a definitive turn toward collective bargaining in video game development, potentially reshaping how the entire industry operates.

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What does this mean for Ubisoft Halifax games?

Development on current projects like the future of ‘Scott Pilgrim’ title(s) is expected to continue. The union’s focus is on improving workplace conditions, not disrupting creative output. Many believe a supported workforce leads to better, more sustainable game development.

Will this lead to more unions at Ubisoft?

Labor advocates believe this successful certification could inspire workers at other Ubisoft studios in Canada and the United States. The Halifax group’s experience provides a roadmap for organizing within the company’s other locations.

How did Ubisoft management respond?

Ubisoft has acknowledged the certification. The company stated it respects the decision of its Halifax team and is committed to engaging in good faith during the upcoming collective bargaining process to reach a fair agreement.

What is CWA Canada?

The Communications Workers of America Canada is a media union representing thousands of workers. Its Local 30111 now represents nearly 180 game developers combined from the newly formed Ubisoft Halifax union and the existing Bethesda Montreal union.