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News · Updated 28 Oct 2026

GTA 6 could leave offices short-staffed

Short answer: Employers are preparing for missing staff on Thursday, November 19, when GTA 6 launches. Workforce firm Deputy found that a Thursday game launch can push shift absences up by about 90%, and US estimates say about 1.5 million workers could take the day off. One company has even announced a pause in its work that day.

By Jake Morrison · Sources checked by GTA6Geek Editorial · Published 29 Oct 2026 · Updated 29 Oct 2026

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GTA 6 artwork for the workplace absence story

On this page

What is happening
The numbers
Are you taking the day off?
Sources
What to read next

What is happening

US TV station ABC10 reports that the GTA 6 launch could leave some workplaces short-staffed. GTA 6 comes out on Thursday, November 19, 2026, a normal working day.

Is this real? Yes, reported by major outlets

Who said it: Workforce firm Deputy, US surveys and local news. Sources: ABC10, HCAMag, TechSpot, Dexerto. Our view: Absence numbers are estimates and past patterns, not official counts. Checked: 28 Oct 2026.

The numbers

Source	Finding
Deputy (shift-work data)	Big game launches pushed absences up by roughly 90%. Overwatch 2, also a Thursday launch, almost doubled absences
US estimates	About 1.5 million workers off, about $1 billion in lost output
IGN survey for GTA 5 (2013)	46% had booked the day off and 19% planned to call in sick
Burger Motorsports	Posted a notice that its work may pause because staff will be “in Vice City”

Deputy also says the day before a launch can be risky for rotas, as people stay up late to play.

Are you taking the day off?

Vote in our live poll: Will you skip work for GTA 6? Plan your night with the exact unlock time and the download time calculator.

Sources

Last checked: 28 Oct 2026. Labels: Official = Rockstar or platform holder, Reported = previews or press, Unconfirmed = not stated by Rockstar.

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Frequently asked questions

Will people skip work for GTA 6?

Yes. Estimates say about 1.5 million US workers could take the day off.

How much can absences rise on a game launch day?

Deputy data shows about 90% more shift absences on big Thursday launches.

What day is GTA 6 released?

Thursday, November 19, 2026.