GTA VI developer accused of union busting in mass firings
In a significant and controversial move, Rockstar Games has reportedly fired between 30 to 40 employees, many of whom were either members of a private trade union Discord chat or were in the process of organizing a union. This action has drawn sharp criticism from the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which labeled the firings as “the most blatant and ruthless act of union busting in the history of the games industry.” The firings occurred across Rockstar’s offices in the UK and Canada, raising concerns about the company’s treatment of workers, particularly in the lead-up to the highly anticipated release of *Grand Theft Auto VI*, now scheduled for May 26, 2026, after a recent delay.
IWGB president Alex Marshall expressed outrage over the firings, emphasizing the impact on workers who contribute significantly to the company’s profits. He described the situation as a “flagrant contempt for the law” and an affront to the workers who dedicate their creativity and labor to the games that have garnered a massive fanbase. Despite the challenges posed by these firings, Marshall affirmed the union’s commitment to organizing for better working conditions and respect, indicating that they would pursue every legal avenue to reinstate the dismissed employees. In contrast, Alan Lewis, head of global corporate communications at Rockstar’s parent company Take-Two Interactive, defended the firings as being solely for “gross misconduct,” without providing further details, and reiterated the company’s commitment to fostering a positive work environment.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions within the gaming industry regarding labor rights and worker organization. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the response from both employees and management at Rockstar may set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future. The IWGB’s determination to fight for the rights of its members underscores a growing movement among game developers and other creative professionals seeking to improve their working conditions and secure a collective voice in an industry often criticized for its demanding environments. As the release of *Grand Theft Auto VI* approaches, the fallout from these firings could significantly impact the company’s public image and its relationship with its workforce.
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Rockstar Games, the developer of
Grand Theft Auto VI
, fired between 30 to 40 employees on Thursday, as previously reported by
Bloomberg
. According to the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB), all of the employees fired were part of a private trade union Discord chat and were either already union members or attempting to organize a union at Rockstar.
“Rockstar has just carried out the most blatant and ruthless act of union busting in the history of the games industry,” IWGB president Alex Marshall said in a statement provided to
The Verge
.
Alan Lewis, head of global corporate communications at Rockstar parent company Take-Two Interactive, responded, telling
The Verge
the firings were “for gross misconduct, and for no other reason,” without elaborating further.
The firings were spread out across Rockstar offices in the UK and Canada. They come just seven months ahead of the release of
Grand Theft Auto VI.
The game’s launch was originally scheduled for this fall, but a few months ago, Rockstar
delayed its release
until May 26th, 2026, saying, “We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve.”
Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) president Alex Marshall:
“Rockstar has just carried out the most blatant and ruthless act of union busting in the history of the games industry. This flagrant contempt for the law and for the lives of the workers who bring in their billions is an insult to their fans and the global industry.
Despite this calculated attack on workers organising for a collective voice and to improve their difficult working conditions, the Rockstar Union remains undeterred. They will keep organising for respect and better conditions whilst continuing to pour their blood, sweat and creativity into games that are loved by millions.
The IWGB will pursue every legal claim possible to ensure our members are reinstated and receive interim relief.”
Alan Lewis, head of global corporate communications at Take-Two Interactive:
“We strive to make the world’s best entertainment properties by giving our best-in-class creative teams positive work environments and ongoing career opportunities. Our culture is focused on teamwork, excellence, and kindness. Rockstar Games terminated a small number of individuals for gross misconduct, and for no other reason. As always, we fully support Rockstar’s ambitions and approach.”
