Trade Union Files Legal Action After 31 GTA 6 Developers Are Let Go
A UK trade union has filed legal claims against Rockstar following the dismissal of 31 Grand Theft Auto 6 developers in late October. According to the union, several of the affected staff members were terminated in retaliation for efforts to unionize, prompting the organization to pursue compensation and legal relief.
The dismissals took place on October 30, affecting developers directly involved with the ongoing production of GTA 6. Not long after the firings, Rockstar confirmed that the game’s launch date had been moved to November 19, 2026 — a six-month delay from its original May 2026 target. The studio stated the extended development time was intended to ensure the game meets the franchise’s established quality standards.
Union Challenges Rockstar’s Reasoning Behind the Firings
While Rockstar previously claimed the terminations were related to leaks surrounding GTA 6, the Independent Workers of Great Britain (IWGB) disputed that explanation. The union argues that the fired workers were targeted for their involvement in union activities, and alleges that Rockstar unfairly dismissed and subsequently blacklisted staff members who were part of IWGB.
According to the union, all affected workers were IWGB members, and the legal claims seek monetary compensation as well as broader relief. IWGB president Alex Marshall expressed strong confidence in the case, stating that the union intends to pursue a full legal challenge with support from its caseworkers and legal team.
GTA 6 Delay Adds Further Pressure
Rockstar has stated that the developer dismissals did not contribute to the game’s delay to November 2026. However, with the company declining to meet with the union at the time of writing, IWGB has opted to move forward with legal action. The delay itself is expected to have major financial consequences, with estimates suggesting it could cost Rockstar hundreds of millions of dollars.
Protests and Growing Tensions
The legal claims follow protests held outside Take-Two’s London offices, where former staff members and IWGB supporters voiced concerns over the dismissals and workplace conditions. The situation remains unresolved, and the union shows no intention of slowing its efforts.
As both sides prepare for what could be a prolonged dispute, the industry now watches to see how Rockstar and Take-Two will respond to the escalating legal and public pressure.
