A group of former Grand Theft Auto 6 developers who are currently involved in a legal dispute with Rockstar Games over alleged union busting has requested that players do not boycott the highly anticipated title. Instead, they are asking fans to support their ongoing legal battle for justice.
In a video shared by the Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB), fired members of the union stated their preference for fans to "Win justice for the people who helped make" Grand Theft Auto 6, rather than boycotting the game. These former developers emphasized that they dedicated years of "hard work, skill, and creativity" to the project and wish for players to experience the fruits of their labor. However, they also stressed that this does not mean allowing Rockstar Games to avoid accountability.
The workers are seeking support through alternative means, such as purchasing custom t-shirts, with all proceeds directed towards assisting the fired employees and funding their legal case. The legal proceedings originated on October 30, 2025, when 31 employees at Rockstar's UK office were terminated without prior notice or explanation. All affected individuals were members of the IWGB and were reportedly involved in organizing a studio-wide union at Rockstar. Despite the dismissals, the union has continued its efforts and is seeking voluntary recognition from Rockstar.
The fired employees contend that their termination was an act of union busting by their former employer. Rockstar, however, maintains that the developers were dismissed for "gross misconduct," which included leaking confidential company information publicly. The company denies any connection between the firings and union membership or activities. A preliminary tribunal has ruled in favor of the workers, allowing them to pursue "blacklisting" allegations—the practice of compiling and discriminating against union-involved workers—against Rockstar in court. The main trial is scheduled to commence on September 10.
The call for support rather than a boycott comes as Grand Theft Auto 6 has seen unprecedented preorder numbers, according to Rockstar's parent company, Take-Two. The company declined to provide specific figures, citing concerns that they might be misleading at this stage. With the release less than 100 days away, further details about the game are expected in an extended preview scheduled for August 27.