Three anonymous current employees at Rockstar North in the UK have alleged that crunch is effectively integrated into employee contracts at the Grand Theft Auto 6 studio. These individuals, who are part of the newly formed Rockstar Game Workers Union, spoke to Game Developer about their experiences, citing issues such as a widening gender pay gap, the weaponization of bonuses for compliance, and a lack of transparency regarding compensation.
The employees claim that a significant portion of their salary is contingent on bonuses that can fluctuate considerably, sometimes leading to pay falling below market rates for comparable industry roles. Compensation can reportedly be docked based on "completely subjective or retroactive criticisms," and career progression is described as "completely discretionary." This pay structure, coupled with inconsistent compensation, may compel workers to be "pliable as possible to their boss's whims."
According to the sources, initiatives aimed at addressing the company's gender pay gap have been discontinued, and nightshift workers no longer receive additional benefits. The disparity in compensation is noted, with some employees receiving excellent pay while others are "woefully underpaid."
The most concerning accusation relates to mandatory overtime. One source stated that the company has, as standard, built an opt-out of the Working Time Regulations into contracts, which typically limits employers to requesting no more than approximately 10 extra hours per week. The union has reportedly informed employees that they can opt back into these regulations, a process that Rockstar management has since simplified. The union also believes the company may be reclassifying overtime with specific compensation as no longer qualifying as crunch.
Crunch levels reportedly vary significantly between departments, with some teams unaware of the working conditions faced by their colleagues. The union workers also accuse Rockstar of hypocrisy regarding remote work policies, noting that company leaders can still work hybrid schedules while subordinates are required to be in the office full-time.
A statement from Rockstar's parent company, Take-Two Interactive, asserts that the company strives to provide "world-class work environments and ongoing career opportunities" and fosters a culture of "teamwork, excellence, and kindness." The statement also highlighted competitive compensation and benefits, noting employee retention is above industry standard. Take-Two confirmed receipt of a union request for voluntary recognition and expressed a commitment to "open and constructive dialogue."