Rockstar Games targeted by politicians. Studio co-founder comments on „most ruthless act”

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Increasingly, politicians are criticizing the recent layoffs at the company behind Grand Theft Auto 6, while one of the studio’s original founders is avoiding direct answers about the well-being of workers in the gaming industry.

After developers spoke out about recent layoffs at Rockstar Games, another politician is raising concerns. Dan Heap, a Green Party councilor in Edinburgh (where one of the affected studios is located), is asking the city council to support the laid-off employees and formally voice their disapproval of Rockstar’s decision. The council is scheduled to discuss this proposal at their next meeting this week.

Another politician is now backing the workers who have lost their jobs. Christine Jardine previously voiced her support in the UK parliament, and the protesting union members described the job cuts as the most severe attack on unions ever seen in the video game industry.

The gaming industry is not perfect, but it’s worth the effort

In a recent interview, Rockstar co-founder Dan Houser – who is now working on a new game and writing a book – discussed layoffs at the company. He spoke with Kate Molleson for BBC Radio 4 (as reported by Rockstar Intel), primarily about his book, which is part of a larger creative universe. This universe includes an audio series and a novel, the latter of which was released on October 25th.

During the broadcast, Houser discussed how the company in A Better Paradise is quickly reducing expenses and compromising its principles to achieve a large-scale societal goal – something many tech companies strive for. Molleson then pointed to the recent layoffs at Rockstar North, noting that those affected have said the decision wasn’t based on any wrongdoing, but rather stemmed from their interest in forming a union.

The radio host asked the game developer if he thought the gaming industry was a good place to work right now. Houser said yes, but added that no workplace is without its flaws.

Yes, that’s the main reason I’m in this industry and why I recommend it to others. No workplace is without its flaws, but my experience in gaming has generally been positive. While every company is different, most places I’ve worked have been supportive and good for people the majority of the time. It’s not perfect, of course, but it’s a good environment overall.

It’s not surprising the answer was unclear. Dan Houser hasn’t been with Rockstar Games for nearly six years, and his brother, Sam, is now in charge. Because of this, Dan wouldn’t be the best person to ask about what’s happening at the studio currently.

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2025-12-01 16:03