GTA VI developer accused of union-busting after mass layoffs

Rockstar Games, the developer behind the much-anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI, is facing serious backlash after firing dozens of employees just months before the game’s release.

According to a Bloomberg report, between 30 and 40 workers were laid off across Rockstar’s UK and Canada offices.

The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) has claimed that all those affected were either union members or involved in efforts to organize a union at the company.

IWGB president Alex Marshall called the move “the most blatant and ruthless act of union busting in the history of the games industry,” accusing Rockstar of showing “flagrant contempt for the law and for the workers who bring in their billions.”

Rockstar’s parent company, Take-Two Interactive, has denied the allegations. Alan Lewis, Take-Two’s head of global corporate communications, said the firings were “for gross misconduct, and for no other reason."

The controversy comes as Rockstar prepares for the release of GTA VI, now slated for May 26, 2026, following a delay announced earlier this year.

The studio noted that the additional time was needed “to deliver the level of quality fans expect.”