Rockstar Games, the company responsible for the popular Grand Theft Auto series, recently terminated over 30 employees, sparking accusations of anti-union practices. According to reports, the layoffs affected staff in the U.K. and Canada, with three individuals in Toronto believed to be among those let go. The workers were allegedly part of a private union chat group, raising concerns over unionization efforts within the company.
The dismissals coincided with news of a delay in the release of Grand Theft Auto VI, a highly anticipated title from Rockstar Games. The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain condemned the firings as a severe form of union-busting within the gaming industry, stating that the affected employees were involved in private union communication and not leaking company information.
In response, protests led by the IWGB took place outside Rockstar and Take-Two offices, denouncing the treatment of the fired employees. The IWGB has since filed legal claims against Rockstar, alleging unfair dismissal and union-busting tactics. The situation has raised concerns about the impact on organizing efforts within the gaming industry, with calls for greater job security and worker representation.