The Rockstar Workers Union (RSGWU) is feeling hopeful. The group, formed in Britain to fight for better working conditions at Rockstar Games, just held its first sit-down meeting with the studio. And by all accounts, it went well.

The union shared the update on its official Bluesky account, calling the meeting a move in the right direction. This comes at an important time. The union has been pushing hard for official recognition from both Rockstar Games and its parent company, Take-Two Interactive, and it wants this sorted out before GTA VI hits shelves.

According to the union, both sides walked away with a clear plan. They say they have worked out a timeline for quick negotiations going forward. The next big task is deciding who exactly counts as part of the “bargaining unit,” basically figuring out which workers the union will officially speak for.

Right now, the union is hoping Rockstar will agree to recognize it on its own, without needing a legal push. This kind of voluntary deal tends to allow more room for flexible talks and contracts down the line. But if that does not happen, the union says it is ready to go the legal route once enough workers sign on.

The RSGWU also laid out its main goals in simple terms. Workers say they want an end to crunch, meaning long overtime hours should be rare, and when they do happen, workers should be paid fairly for the extra time. They also want clear pay practices, so people understand how raises, bonuses, and stock options are decided. Remote work is another priority, with the union asking for flexible work-from-home policies to return, noting they help people managing personal challenges. Protection from AI replacing jobs is high on the list too, with the union insisting no worker’s job or work should be handed over to artificial intelligence. And after the studio’s recent firing of 31 employees, the union wants a real commitment that layoffs will not happen again.

There may be a small silver lining here. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has spoken openly in the past about his excitement for generative AI in gaming. Still, he has also said the notion of AI building a game entirely on its own is far-fetched. For union members watching the AI conversation closely, that comment might be a small but welcome sign heading into future talks.

For now, the union says this first meeting is just the beginning. More updates on the negotiation process are expected soon as both sides work toward an agreement before GTA VI arrives.