Union raises concerns about Rockstar Games return to office decision, Management refused to listen
Labor Union expressed concerns over Rockstar Games latest decision to force employees to return to the offices at least 5 days a week.
The IWGB, also known as the Independent Works Union Of Great Britain, issued a press release today, raising concerns about Rockstar Games forcing the majority of its employees back into the offices for at least 5 days a week, officially starting April 15, 2024.
The Union highlighted how almost none of Rockstar Games employees want to return to a full work week back in the office and how beneficial working from home has become for employees. Including staff who have Disabilities, Health Problems and Caring Responsibilities. People who suffer from these will now suffer even more struggling to get into the offices.
IWGB described the move as a “reckless decision” and expressed concerns about poor planning and serious impacts on welfare. Selected individuals were notified in early February, although official communications took more than three weeks to appear, leaving many concerned about circulating rumors.
It has also been stated that Management at Rockstar Games refuses to listen or engage with employees and has said that they will disable their remote access technology which will disable any possibility of any staff working from home. This is not the first time that management at Rockstar has refused to listen to their staff and has been ruthless towards them.
It was revealed last night that working from home is ending due to GTA VI entering final stages of development. With Rockstar Games apparently brings a lack of productivity when working at home and security concerns. The Union suggested that Rockstar Games did not provide any evidence to staff that suggested there was a lack of productivity or safety concerns.
All this came a year after almost 200 Rockstar Executives signed a petition against being forced to be in the office for at least 3 days a week.
The Union has released what some of its members who work for Rockstar Games think about the ridiculous decision.
An anonymous Rockstar worker says, “Working from home has been a lifeline for many of us at Rockstar, allowing us to balance caregiving responsibilities, manage disabilities and relocate as needed. Now, Rockstar is taking away that lifeline without a second thought for the workers who will be most affected. After so many broken promises we now fears that management may even be paving the way for a return to toxic ‘crunch’ practices. Senior leadership must rethink their reckless decision and engage with their staff to find an arrangement that works for everyone.”
Another shares, “As usual, there has been zero consultation with us: the people most affected by these policy changes. Only one of my concerns is being forced to work late in the office to keep in touch with global teams when previously we could log in from home to attend late meetings . This will mean missing out on time with our families. I am also aware of colleagues who have health issues preventing full-time office work, who are now left in limbo.”
Speaking for his colleagues, one worker says, “We the staff care deeply about the games we make, and our passion, skill and talent should never be taken for granted by studio management. It is together, through collaboration and a healthy work-life balance and workplace culture, that we continue to make some of the most beloved and spectacular games in our industry.”
You can read the full Union Press release here.
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