Rockstar Games has been accused of illegally firing over 30 members of its UK team for engaging in trade union activity.
The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) described the move as a “calculated attack on workers.”
Those impacted were reportedly fired on October 30, 2025. All were part of a private trade union Discord channel and members of the IWGB.
IWGB organizers explained some of those impacted had been relying on essential workplace healthcare schemes and visas sponsored by Rockstar, which is a subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive.
“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,” said IWGB president, Alex Marshall, in a statement.
“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.”
Marshall said IWGB will pursue every legal claim possible to ensure its members are reinstated and receive interim relief.
In a statement handed to Bloomberg, Take-Two Interactive head of global communications Alan Lewis said the firings were “for gross misconduct, and for no other reason.”
Speaking to Game Developer earlier today, an IWGB spokesperson said there was no evidence those fired were guilty of “gross misconduct.” Notably, they said employees were not made aware of that purported reasoning at the time of their dismissal.
IWGB is still in the process of exploring what sort of legal action can be taken. Game Developer understands the union currently represents around 10 percent of Rockstar UK.
The news comes just months before Grand Theft Auto VI is scheduled to launch in May 2026. Analysts believe the open-world title could generate $10 billion in lifetime revenue (via The Telegraph). Its predecessor, Grand Theft Auto V, remains hugely lucrative for Take-Two despite launching over a decade ago and has sold over 215 million copies worldwide.
IWGB Game Workers Union chair, Spring Mcparlin-Jones, said Rockstar’s “attack” on the rights of those responsible for crafting one of its most valuable franchises makes it clear that “money matters more than people.”
Game Developer reached out to Take-Two for comment and was provided with the following statement by spokesperson Alan Lewis:
“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.”
