Former Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has shared his thoughts on unionization in the video game industry, saying he is neither for nor against it. Speaking to GameSpot sister site CNET, Fils-Aime said unionization is an “output” that happens when workers’ core needs are not being met.
“I think it’s important to step back and really think about, What does a worker need in order for that part of their life to be fulfilled? The first thing they need is economic stability. They need to know that they have a job. They need to know that they’re going to have a paycheck,” Fils-Aime said. “The second thing they need is economic mobility. So when, as a worker, you’re ready to grow and take on that next big challenge, the company needs to provide that. Then the third thing that workers need is they need to be recognized at their workplace. There needs to be not only the basics of safety, but there needs to be emotional rewards provided by the job and by the employer.”