Rockstar, the developer of Grand Theft Auto VI, has reportedly made between 30 and 40 workers redundant in a transfer that the Impartial Staff’ Union of Nice Britain (IWGB) describes as “blatant” and “ruthless” union-busting.
In keeping with Bloomberg, the employees fired final Thursday had been all British and Canadian workers who had been additionally members of personal union discussion groups on Discord, and had been both union members themselves or making an attempt to arrange Rockstar. IWGB issued a press launch following the dismissal, claiming that the worker’s dismissal was clearly on account of union exercise.
Rockstar simply dedicated probably the most blatant and ruthless union-busting act within the historical past of the gaming business. This flagrant disregard for the legislation and the lives of employees who earn billions of {dollars} is an insult to their followers and the worldwide business.
Regardless of this calculated assault on employees who’ve organized to boost their collective voice and enhance tough working situations, Rockstar Union stays undaunted. They are going to proceed to arrange for respect and higher situations, whereas persevering with to pour blood, sweat and creativity into the sport cherished by thousands and thousands.
IWGB will pursue all doable authorized claims to make sure the reinstatement and provisional aid of members.
In response, Rockstar issued its personal assertion by a Take-Two spokesperson, calling the dismissal “for gross misconduct and for no different purpose.”
We attempt to create the world’s greatest leisure venues by offering a constructive work atmosphere and continued profession alternatives for best-in-class inventive groups. Our tradition focuses on teamwork, excellence, and kindness. Rockstar Video games has terminated a small variety of people for gross misconduct, however for no different purpose. As at all times, we absolutely help Rockstar’s ambitions and method.
These layoffs come as Rockstar prepares to launch Grand Theft Auto 6 subsequent Might, a recreation that some analysts predict will gross $3 billion in its first yr of launch, and others name one of the crucial vital recreation releases of all time.
Amid excessive public expectations for the sport, Rockstar stored its advertising and marketing toned down and launched little details about the sport earlier than its launch. However after a serious leak of a recreation in improvement in 2022 and the sport’s first trailer launched the next yr, Rockstar has tightened its safety even additional. Final yr, the studio began asking workers to come back into the workplace 5 days per week, citing enhancements in each productiveness and safety. The choice was criticized by employees at IWGB, who accused Rockstar of breaking its promise to drive reinstatement and of refusing to interact with employees on the difficulty.
Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter at videogameaddicted. You’ll find her posts at BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. Do you’ve any story suggestions? Ship it to rvalentine@videogameaddicted.com.