On Wednesday, Jason Schreier reported that the management desires to bring their employees back to five days a week in the office at Rockstar North in April as the development of GTA 6 enters its final stage.
In the letter sent out to developers, Jenn Kolbe, the head of the publishing department in New York, cites the reasons for such a decision — productivity and security measures (“the sixth” had suffered unprecedented leaks).
Initially, Alec McNamara, a senior game designer at Rockstar Games, indirectly confirmed the existence of such a request, replying humorously to the journalist’s publication (the tweet has been deleted): “Jason, do you live within our walls?”
And the next day, the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain, which represents the interests of the rank-and-file “rock stars,” who are “with few exceptions” wanted back in the office by April 15, officially commented. From this date, some tools that allow for remote work will no longer function. Several R* representatives anonymously expressed their dissatisfaction to IWGB. They are unhappy with decisions made without their knowledge, calling it impossible to return to the previous conditions for various reasons: relocation, health, etc. They also fear the return of crunch policies. One of the respondents provided a specific example when they have to stay late at work to liaise with people from other parts of the world, which could be done from home. The management is accused of breaching agreements.
However, it’s important to note that the previous agreement signed by 175 workers has expired, and Rockstar undoubtedly has legal grounds for such an unpopular move. However, the fan base is excited — they hope this will help release GTA 6 as soon as possible. Perhaps, by the beginning of 2025.
Source: gta.com.ua