2K Motion Capture Studio Elects to Unionize

Update (November 27): In response to the recent decision about unionization, 2K Games has issued a statement expressing respect for the outcome reached by the motion capture team in California.

“On November 22, 2024, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) conducted a secret ballot election, inviting eligible employees of the 2K Petaluma Mocap Studio to cast their votes on whether they wished to unionize with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) union,” the company stated.

With the ballots tallied, the initial results reveal a majority support for unionization with IATSE. “We respect the decision of our team members and appreciate everyone who participated in the election,” the company added. “As we move forward, our dedication remains on delivering top-notch, captivating, and immersive experiences to players around the world.”

Original Story (November 25): Employees at 2K Games’ motion-capture studio in California have voted in favor of forming a union.

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) shared the news on their website. The report highlighted that 15 employees voted in favor, while six opposed the motion on Friday, November 22nd. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) oversaw the election process.

Matthew Peterson, a mocap animator at 2K, expressed his thoughts, “Today, it’s clear that the individuals at this studio are striving not only for their benefit but also for that of their coworkers, future workers, and the studio as a whole.”

He added, “While this journey has had its hurdles, it’s heartening to see the core motivation is empathy for one another. I look forward to engaging in sincere negotiations with Take-Two, and I hope this inspires other workers in our industry to organize and secure the necessary protections to not just survive but thrive.”

IATSE International President Matthew Loeb remarked, “This victory goes beyond a single studio; it signifies the future of work in the video game industry.

“2K MoCap workers have demonstrated, as many in the entertainment field already know, that collective action is essential to achieving fairness, equity, and respect in the workplace. Their bravery will serve as inspiration for others in the industry. This outcome also highlights what can be accomplished when workers choose to organize, a right we are determined to protect and expand.”

The unionization effort at 2K’s California mocap studio initiated in October.