Reports of intense “crunch” at Rockstar Games have surfaced following an anonymous review allegedly posted by a developer from its Bengaluru office.
The review, shared on Glassdoor, claims employees are working until 3 AM to meet the scheduled November 19, 2026, release of Grand Theft Auto VI.
Allegations of long hours and pressure
According to the post, developers are facing compressed timelines, with tasks originally planned for six months reportedly being pushed to completion within two. The review also alleges unpaid overtime and increasing pressure as deadlines approach.
Mixed reactions online
The claims have sparked debate among gaming communities and professionals. While some users expressed concern over working conditions, others questioned the credibility of anonymous reviews, noting the lack of official confirmation.
Crunch culture under scrutiny
“Crunch” — a term used in the gaming industry to describe periods of intense overtime — has long been criticised for its impact on employee well-being. Large-scale projects nearing release often see increased workloads, though studios have faced growing calls to improve work practices.
No official response yet
There has been no official statement from Rockstar Games regarding the allegations. Industry observers note that such reports are difficult to verify but are not uncommon during the final stages of major game development.
Spotlight on global development hubs
The discussion also highlights the role of Bengaluru as a key hub for global game development, where teams contribute to high-profile international projects.
As anticipation builds for GTA 6, the conversation around workplace practices continues to gain attention