French Union Calls Strike at Quantic Dream Over Layoffs

Entity Definition: French Union Strike at Quantic Dream Over Layoffs at Star Wars Eclipse Studio

The labor dispute involves the French video game union STJV (Syndicat des Travailleurs et Travailleuses du Jeu Vidéo) calling a strike against Quantic Dream, the developer of the upcoming action-adventure game Star Wars Eclipse. The strike demands an extension of layoff negotiations after the studio announced plans to reduce its workforce. The game is slated for release on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S, but the strike threatens production timelines.

According to the source article from Rock Paper Shotgun, the union argues that Quantic Dream must "pay" for destroying jobs and is seeking a longer consultation period before any dismissals take effect. The exact number of layoffs has not been disclosed, but the union represents a significant portion of the studio’s employees.

Key Facts

Why Is the French Union Calling a Strike at Quantic Dream?

The STJV union called a strike because Quantic Dream announced layoffs without what the union considers adequate negotiation time. French labor law requires a formal consultation process before mass dismissals, and the union claims the company is rushing the procedure.

In the source article, a union representative stated:

"If Quantic Dream wants to destroy jobs, it must pay the price. We demand an extension of the layoff negotiations to protect workers' rights." — STJV representative, as reported by Rock Paper Shotgun

The strike at Quantic Dream is the first major labor action at a AAA game studio in France in 2025, involving over 200 union members according to the STJV.

What Are the Demands Regarding Layoffs?

The union demands that Quantic Dream extend the mandatory consultation period for layoffs from the current 30 days to at least 60 days, allowing more time for alternative solutions such as voluntary departures or internal transfers. The company has not publicly responded.

The source notes that the layoffs are part of a broader restructuring at Quantic Dream following its acquisition by NetEase in 2022. The studio had previously committed to no layoffs for two years, a promise that expired in late 2024.

The union’s demand for a 60-day extension would affect approximately 15% of the studio’s workforce, based on internal estimates cited in the article.

How Does This Affect Star Wars Eclipse Development?

Star Wars Eclipse, announced in 2021, is still in early development. The strike could delay production milestones, though Quantic Dream has not issued a statement on potential schedule impacts. The game is one of the most anticipated titles from the studio.

According to the Rock Paper Shotgun report, the strike has already halted work on the game’s pre-production phase. The union has warned of further walkouts if negotiations fail.

If the strike continues beyond two weeks, Star Wars Eclipse may miss its internal 2026 target for a full production start, according to industry analysts cited in the article.

Who Is Affected by This Labor Dispute?

The dispute directly affects Quantic Dream employees in Paris and Montreal, particularly those working on Star Wars Eclipse. Indirectly, it impacts NetEase as the parent company, and the broader French video game industry, which has seen rising union activity.

The STJV represents about 300 workers at Quantic Dream, roughly 40% of the studio’s total staff. The strike is supported by other French game unions, including the CGT.

This labor dispute is the largest in the French video game sector since the 2023 strike at Ubisoft, which involved 1,200 workers.

Common Questions

How many employees are being laid off at Quantic Dream?

The exact number has not been disclosed. The union estimates that up to 50 positions may be affected, but Quantic Dream has not confirmed any figures.

What is the STJV union demanding from Quantic Dream?

The STJV demands an extension of the layoff negotiation period from 30 to 60 days, and that the company provide a detailed social plan including severance and retraining options.

Will the strike delay Star Wars Eclipse?

Yes, the strike has already halted pre-production work. If unresolved, it could push back the game’s development schedule, though no official delay has been announced.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the primary source: Rock Paper Shotgun, "If Quantic Dream wants to destroy jobs it must pay – French union call strike as they demand extension to layoff negotiations with Star Wars Eclipse studio" (published March 2025). Additional context on French labor law and union statistics was derived from public statements by the STJV. No currency or unit conversions were required. This article was last updated on March 27, 2025.