GTA VI developer Rockstar accused of firing workers for trying to form union

Rockstar Games has terminated between 30 and 40 employees across its UK and Canadian offices in what a British trade union is calling one of the most aggressive union-busting actions in gaming industry history, according to Bloomberg.The Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB) alleges all fired employees were part of a private Discord channel where workers discussed unionising. IWGB President Alex Marshall condemned the move as showing "flagrant contempt for the law and for the lives of the workers who bring in their billions".Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar's parent company, denied the allegations, stating the firings were "for gross misconduct, and for no other reason".

The company declined to specify the number of terminated employees or details about the alleged misconduct.

Rockstar’s timing raises questions about motivation

The mass terminations come just seven months before Grand Theft Auto VI's scheduled launch on May 26, 2026. Bloomberg reports the firings occurred on Thursday across multiple Rockstar offices, affecting workers who were either union members or attempting to organise.Rockstar has heightened security measures following a massive 2022 leak that released unfinished GTA VI footage.

The studio previously faced criticism for requiring employees to return to office five days weekly, citing security concerns.The IWGB stated it will pursue legal action to secure reinstatement and interim relief for affected members. Among those dismissed were employees on company-sponsored visas and workers with medical conditions who will lose access to workplace healthcare.The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between gaming companies and workers seeking better conditions. While Rockstar largely avoided the industry's recent layoff wave, Take-Two cut approximately 5% of its workforce in April 2024.GTA VI remains one of the most anticipated game releases, expected to become a top-selling title when it launches on consoles next year. A PC release date has not been confirmed.