Unionised Blizzard employees have successfully negotiated a contract that addresses generative AI use and layoff protections.
Today’s PC gaming news brings a serious highlight from the labor front as unionised Blizzard employees successfully ratified a new contract aimed at addressing the implications of generative AI and securing job protections. According to Rock Paper Shotgun, the contract includes a provision that mandates Blizzard to negotiate with workers regarding the adoption of generative AI tools. Additionally, it provides laid-off workers the right to be “recalled” into open positions for a period of 14 months following a layoff. This development is another step in the evolving dynamics between game developers and the growing influence of AI technologies in their creative processes.
Studio Closures and Modding Triumphs
Sadly, the industry also sees a closure this week. Polyarc, the developer behind the beloved ‘Moss’ VR games, announced they are shutting down operations. Just two months after releasing ‘Moss: The Forgotten Relic’, a non-VR port of their famous mouse adventure series, the developer confirmed the end of “active development” on their LinkedIn profile. The closure highlights ongoing challenges within the VR gaming niche, where even well-received projects face sustainability issues.
On a brighter side of creativity, modders continue to inject vitality into established games. ‘Project Zomboid’ has been invigorated by an ambitious mod introducing simulated NPC factions, reminiscent of the ‘Stalker’ series, as reported by PCGamesN. This modification transforms the game into a more dynamic and interactive survival experience, offering players a new layer of depth in gameplay.
Event Changes and New Endeavors
Another significant development is the cancellation of the final day of the Tokyo Game Show due to Typhoon Dujuan, marking a quick pivot in response to natural events. According to PC Gamer, safety concerns led to the cancellation of what was supposed to be a historic five-day event, reverting it back to four. Refunds were issued for ticketholders of the canceled day.
Meanwhile, the ‘Touhou Project’, a series renowned within niche circles, sees new life with a remake of ‘Touhou Koumakyou: The Embodiment of Scarlet Devil’, its foundational 2002 entry, as reported by Rock Paper Shotgun. This release may capture both long-time fans and newcomers curious about the series’ long-standing appeal.
In the realm of modding, Elden Ring’s modding community remains active with developments such as a modder porting an entire ‘Dark Souls 2’ DLC zone into ‘Elden Ring Nightreign’. This creative endeavor is highlighted by PC Gamer and showcases the continuing passion and innovation within the FromSoftware fanbase.
