Rockstar Games Fires Dozens Over Alleged Leaks Ahead of GTA 6

Grand Theft Auto VI developer Rockstar Games has terminated the employment of approximately 30 to 40 staff members for allegedly leaking confidential information. This move comes as the gaming community eagerly anticipates the release of what is expected to be one of the largest entertainment launches in history. Rockstar, known for its strict confidentiality policies, has faced significant challenges with leaks regarding GTA VI, including a major hack in September 2022 that revealed early footage of the game.

The company’s decision to fire these employees has sparked controversy, particularly with claims from the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB). The union asserts that the dismissals were related to efforts by staff to organize a union, a claim that Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, has firmly denied. They contend that the terminations were due to “gross misconduct” related to the leaks.

According to a representative from Rockstar Games, those let go were found to be “distributing and discussing confidential information in a public forum,” which violated company policies. The spokesperson emphasized that the actions taken were not connected to any union activities. “This was in no way related to people’s right to join a union or engage in union activities,” the spokesperson stated.

The IWGB responded to these claims, asserting that all affected employees were part of a private Discord group intended for union discussions. Alex Marshall, president of the IWGB, criticized Rockstar’s approach, suggesting that the company fears its employees discussing their rights to a more equitable workplace. “Management are showing they don’t care about delays to GTA VI, and that they’re prioritizing union-busting by targeting the very people who make the game,” Marshall stated.

As anticipation builds for the release of Grand Theft Auto VI, scheduled for May 26, 2026, on Xbox Series X|S and PS5, Rockstar has implemented stricter security measures, including requiring staff to return to the office to enhance oversight. The company has a history of pursuing legal action against those who leak sensitive material, underscoring its commitment to protecting its intellectual property.

The situation has drawn attention not only for its implications on employee rights but also for the broader context of labor relations in the gaming industry. With the IWGB organizing a protest outside Take-Two’s office in London on November 6, 2023, the developments surrounding these firings are likely to resonate beyond just Rockstar and its employees, highlighting ongoing debates about workplace rights in the tech and entertainment sectors.

As Rockstar navigates these challenges, the gaming community remains focused on the upcoming release of GTA VI, hoping that the controversies surrounding its development do not overshadow what is set to be a landmark title in the franchise.