Rockstar Games employees have expressed their discontent with the decision to require a full-time return to the office to work on GTA 6. The company's senior management announced that employees must resume working in the office five days a week starting from April 15, ending the hybrid and remote work arrangements that have been in place.
Upon hearing the news, developers publicly criticized the decision, citing concerns about potential negative impacts on personnel and health. One employee highlighted the challenges this decision poses for parents and individuals with disabilities, labeling it a 'massive problem.'
Concerns have also been raised about the impact on productivity and the well-being of colleagues, especially in the context of ongoing Covid-19 concerns. Employees pointed out that during the development of Red Dead Redemption 2, remote collaboration with other studios was common practice, and GTA 5 was largely developed remotely.
The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) condemned Rockstar's management for their lack of engagement with workers and their decision to restrict remote access technology, effectively eliminating the possibility of continued remote work.
The IWGB Game Workers Union at Rockstar is advocating for transparency in pay and promotions, a healthy workplace culture, and a work-life balance tailored to individual needs. The union criticized Rockstar's leadership for disregarding workers' requests for basic working conditions.
Reports suggest that Rockstar's decision to enforce full-time office work stems from concerns about productivity and security following leaks of unfinished GTA 6 content in 2022. The company has been approached for comment on the matter.
Employees at Rockstar Games are grappling with the impending shift back to full-time office work, raising valid concerns about the impact on their well-being and productivity. The situation underscores the ongoing debate surrounding remote work arrangements and the need for transparent communication between employers and employees.
