Workers at Rockstar Games have requested voluntary union recognition with the IWGB Game Workers Union, a move that comes just before the launch of Grand Theft Auto VI. The push follows the firing of over 30 staff last year and marks part of a growing movement among game developers to unionize.

Since 2019, IWGB members have been actively organizing and claim representation across Rockstar’s sites in Edinburgh, Dundee, Lincoln, Leeds and London. Rockstar has already seen some improvements, including unprecedented average pay rises and financial incentives for crunch time, but the union now wants to improve pay transparency and flexible working arrangements.

Alan Lewis, Take-Two’s head of communications, stated that they value constructive dialogue with all stakeholders. A final employment tribunal hearing over last year's firings is set for September, just before GTA VI launches on November 19th at $79.99. Preorders have already opened.

The push towards unionization isn't unique to Rockstar; Double Fine and Raven Software workers have also sought to form unions in recent months. This development hints at a significant shift in the industry's approach to labor rights and working conditions.