Rockstar Games has issued a statement denying any link between its firing of around 34 employees and their union activities, attributing dismissals to leaks of confidential game information. This follows UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's announcement of a ministerial investigation into the late October incident, amid ongoing IWGB accusations, employee protests, and parliamentary scrutiny.
Update on Rockstar's Position
On December 11, 2025, Rockstar told IGN and GameSpot that the dismissals of approximately 34 staff across the UK, Canada, and elsewhere—previously detailed as occurring in late October or November—were solely due to 'gross misconduct' involving the distribution of confidential details on upcoming titles like GTA 6 in what the company describes as a 'public forum.' The firm categorically rejected claims by the Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB) that the actions targeted union members or organizing efforts, calling such accusations 'entirely false and misleading.'
Reports suggest the discussions happened on a private Discord server among staff and union organizers, contradicting Rockstar's public forum assertion.
Escalating Union and Political Pressure
IWGB President Alex Marshall accused Rockstar of prioritizing 'union-busting' over projects like GTA 6, slated for November 2026. Over 200 employees have demanded reinstatement, with protests at UK and international offices.
The controversy reached UK Parliament in November, including Liberal Democrat MP Christine Jardine's concerns for Edinburgh constituents. On December 10, Prime Minister Keir Starmer labeled the firings 'deeply concerning,' reaffirming union rights and directing ministers to investigate—prompting the company's latest response.
Broader Industry Context
The unresolved dispute underscores labor tensions in gaming, with no legal outcomes yet from IWGB's claim.