GTA VI Developer Rockstar Games Accused of Union Busting Following Mass Firings

Rockstar Games Faces Union Busting Allegations After Firing 30-40 Employees

Rockstar Games, the developer behind Grand Theft Auto VI, is under fire for allegedly union busting after firing 30 to 40 employees on Thursday. According to the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB), all of the fired employees were either union members or trying to organize a union at the company.

The IWGB has called the move a “ruthless act” of union busting. They claim this is the most extreme example of such behavior in the gaming industry.

Rockstar Denies Union Busting Claims

In response to these allegations, Alan Lewis, head of global corporate communications at Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, stated the firings were due to gross misconduct. He denied any connection to the employees’ union activity but did not provide more details on the misconduct.

The firings affected Rockstar offices in both the UK and Canada, just months before the release of Grand Theft Auto VI. The game, originally set for release this fall, has now been delayed to May 26, 2026, to ensure high quality.

Union Calls for Legal Action

Despite the company’s stance, the IWGB has vowed to take legal action. They say they will pursue all possible legal claims to have the fired employees reinstated. Alex Marshall, president of the IWGB, stated that the union will continue organizing for better working conditions and respect for the workers.

“This blatant disregard for the law is an insult to both the workers and the fans who support Rockstar,” Marshall said. “We will not be deterred by these attacks. We will keep fighting for fair treatment.”

Rockstar Defends Its Workplace Culture

In its response, Take-Two Interactive emphasized its commitment to fostering a positive work environment at Rockstar. Lewis reiterated that the company focuses on teamwork, excellence, and kindness. However, he did not elaborate on the specifics of the alleged misconduct.

“We strive to create the world’s best entertainment properties by providing our creative teams with positive work environments and career opportunities,” Lewis said.

What This Means for the Gaming Industry

The mass firings at Rockstar Games have ignited a wider debate on unionization in the gaming industry. As gaming companies continue to generate billions in revenue, many workers are demanding better conditions and a stronger voice. The IWGB and other labor groups are pushing for more transparency and fair treatment in the industry.

With the release of Grand Theft Auto VI on the horizon, this controversy could affect the public perception of the company and its labor practices.