Workers at Rockstar Games involved in the development of Grand Theft Auto VI are seeking official recognition of a newly formed union, the IWGB Game Workers Union, ahead of the game’s November release. Multiple outlets report that the push follows mass firings at Rockstar last year, which employees and observers describe as triggering a broader labor dispute. The IWGB campaign is focused on securing union recognition so workers can access formal channels to negotiate the union’s aims, including pay transparency, improved working practices, and limiting or ending “crunch.”
The Guardian reports an effort to complete recognition before the release date, with support from the IWGB. Other coverage adds that the union is seeking voluntary recognition and that, if Rockstar does not comply within a short timeframe, the matter could proceed to a government tribunal under UK labor law. The union is described as having publicly announced itself in late May, and workers associated with the campaign characterize their organizing efforts as gaining momentum despite the prior staff sackings.
