Rockstar's layoffs and criticism from politicians

Rockstar Games, the developer behind the popular GTA series, is under fire over the October layoffs of 34 employees last year. Politicians in the United Kingdom have raised concerns about how the dismissals were handled and the allegations of unfair dismissal, with the IWGB Game Worker’s Union claiming the situation is an example of union-busting.

The situation around the layoffs

According to Rockstar Games, the employees were dismissed for gross misconduct, including breaching confidentiality rules by sharing private information on Discord. The IWGB Game Worker’s Union, however, has said the Discord server in question was meant to facilitate discussions about union organizing. All of the dismissed workers were members of the union, further fueling the union-busting allegations.

Legal developments and political support

In January 2026, an employment tribunal was held to determine whether the dismissed workers were entitled to interim financial support, but the decision was negative. A final ruling on the union-busting allegations is still pending. Meanwhile, local MPs such as Chris Murray, MP for Edinburgh East and Musselburgh, have publicly backed the IWGB and voiced concern over how Rockstar handled the dismissals.

Political reactions and accountability

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also expressed concern over the workers’ dismissals, announcing that the matter would be investigated. Other MPs, including Tracy Gilbert and Dr. Scott Arthur, have criticized Rockstar’s lack of transparency and respect throughout the process. Gilbert said it was disappointing that Rockstar refused to engage fairly with workers and union representatives, while Arthur stressed that workers’ rights in the UK are currently being expanded.

The situation is complicated by conflicting statements from Rockstar, which says the workers leaked information about future game features. It remains an uncertain time for those involved as hearings and political reactions continue to unfold.