- Rockstar fired 34 staff members for “gross misconduct” allegedly triggered by discussion of Slack policy changes in an external Discord server.
- The Discord channel was created in 2022 for Rockstar members showing interest in unionization, and contained reps from the Independent Workers of Great Britain (IWGB) union.
- Rockstar restricted internal Slack channels discussing hobbies and interests due to productivity concerns, leading to subsequent changes in status messages on Slack.
- The IWGB claims Rockstar was engaging in “union busting” by firing affected staff and filed a wrongful dismissal case against the company.
Rockstar’s Policy Changes Prompted Staff Dismissals
Grand Theft Auto developer Rockstar Games has recently faced intense scrutiny following the firing of 34 employees, who were dismissed for “gross misconduct” by the company and its parent firm Take-Two Interactive. The incident reportedly originated from discussions about Slack policy changes that took place in an external Discord server used by union members.
The Discord Incident
The Discord channel in question was established in 2022 for Rockstar employees interested in unionization, and included representatives from the Independent Workers of Great Britain (IWGB) union. While discussions within secure channels were focused on non-confidential matters such as salaries, a more open general channel allowed both unionized and non-unionized employees to communicate freely.
According to reports, Rockstar began restricting access to internal Slack channels discussing hobbies and interests in early October due to concerns over productivity. One of these channels was a games forum where industry news, including recent layoffs, were shared. Subsequently, the company placed limits on what staff could include in their status messages on Slack.
External Discussion and Firing
When emails detailing changes to Slack policies reached UK-based employees who were not at the office, they posted this information in the Discord server for colleagues to read. One employee reportedly approached Rockstar management with concerns about these emails being discussed externally, which prompted an investigation of the Discord channel.
In response, 34 staff members from the Discord server were dismissed for what Rockstar and Take-Two described as “gross misconduct.” The IWGB union accused the company of engaging in “union busting” tactics to undermine worker solidarity. In a statement to People Make Games, IWGB president Alex Marshall emphasized that such actions demonstrate a lack of transparency and an attempt to govern through fear.
Union Response and Legal Action
The IWGB has filed a wrongful dismissal case against Rockstar North, the developer division. Since then, over 200 Rockstar employees have signed a letter requesting the reinstatement of dismissed workers. Additionally, affected staff have held protests in London and Edinburgh to draw attention to their plight.
Rockstar and Take-Two Interactive have declined further comment on the matter beyond their initial statements. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between large gaming companies, their employees, and labor unions as workers increasingly seek better working conditions and fair treatment.
