When GTA V launched in 2013, many gamers took time off work to play it. According to a survey by The Telegraph, 46% of respondents had scheduled a day off, while 19% planned to call in sick.
In 2013, GTA 5 made headlines as thousands of fans across the globe called out sick, with social media buzzing about gamers’ wild plans to immerse themselves in the game for hours on end. The impact of the game’s launch was so intense that it left bosses across industries scratching their heads over the sudden uptick in absenteeism.
For GTA 6, which promises to be even more immersive with its rumored massive map, improved graphics, and new gameplay mechanics, the scale of “sick day” gaming is expected to reach new heights. With a large portion of the fan base now working adults, the struggle to balance career demands with the excitement of playing the new game is leading to a rash of creative excuses.
As workplaces become more familiar with this trend, employers might be a bit more suspicious about the “mysterious illnesses” occurring on launch day. Some companies may be lenient, acknowledging the cultural impact of a new GTA release, while others may keep a close eye on employees who suddenly fall ill around the time of the game’s debut.
Regardless of the approach taken by employers, one thing is clear: GTA 6 fever is going to sweep the world. Whether gamers call in sick or find other ways to squeeze in playtime, Rockstar’s latest release is poised to make waves — both in the virtual world and in real life.
