Take-Two Interactive and Rockstar Games are facing turbulent times. Recently, GTA 6 experienced another delay, with its new release date set for November 19, 2026. This setback was revealed during Take-Two’s quarterly earnings call. Simultaneously, Rockstar has come under fire for terminating 30 to 40 employees, alleging they shared confidential information publicly. The dismissed workers, however, claim their termination was a result of union-related discussions on Discord, labeling the move as harsh union busting.
Rockstar’s Culture Under Scrutiny
Amidst these developments, Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Take-Two, is standing by the company’s reputation, insisting they are “incredibly proud” of their labor relations. In a recent discussion, Zelnick pointed to prior statements when questioned about union-busting accusations, emphasizing unwavering support for Rockstar.
When asked about Take-Two’s general stance on unions, Zelnick refrained from a direct answer but highlighted the value they place on their employees, boasting a recognition as an employer of choice and a notably low attrition rate compared to industry standards.
[A Take-Two spokesperson later clarified Rockstar’s global attrition rate is 4%, and in the UK it is “half that number.” Clarification on the industry average attrition source indicated it was for “entertainment and tech,” based on Take-Two’s internal research using various data platforms.]
Union Tensions and Employee Protests
The controversy escalated with protests organized by affected employees and their supporters outside Rockstar and Take-Two’s UK headquarters. According to the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB), the union Discord only included union organizers apart from Rockstar employees. IWGB leader Alex Marshall criticized Rockstar, alleging the company is more focused on union suppression than addressing the GTA 6 delays.
Marshall highlighted that Rockstar’s executives have greatly benefited from tax relief while neglecting employee welfare, prioritizing profit over workers and fans. Rockstar, however, stands firm that the dismissals were strictly for “gross misconduct, and for no other reason.”
Historical Labor Disputes
This isn’t the company’s first encounter with employee dissatisfaction. Last year, Rockstar requested employees to return to office work five days a week, aiming for heightened productivity and security after substantial leaks and premature releases related to GTA 6. This decision faced backlash from IWGB-affiliated workers, accusing Rockstar of reneging on promises and ignoring employees’ concerns.
GTA 6 is now scheduled for release on November 19, 2026.