The newly formed Rockstar Game Workers Union represents employees across Rockstar Games' UK offices, including locations in Edinburgh, London, Leeds, Lincoln, and Dundee. This marks a significant development as it is the first labor union established at the Grand Theft Auto developer. The union aims to address critical issues such as pay transparency and flexible working conditions.
The decision to publicly announce the union comes in the wake of a contentious situation involving the dismissal of 31 union members in October 2026. This event sparked accusations of union-busting from the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which described the firings as a severe attack on workers' rights. Rockstar Games has asserted that the terminations were due to gross misconduct related to confidential information.
Protests ensued at various Rockstar studios following the firings, and a legal claim against the company was filed by the IWGB concerning the alleged unfair dismissals. As the case progresses in court, the union is also looking to raise funds for its legal defense. The timing of this announcement coincides with heightened public interest in Rockstar Games due to the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto VI in November.