GTA VI launch could cost US about $1 billion in lost output, economist estimates
An economist at Pompeu Fabra University estimates roughly 1.5 million US workers may take leave around the November 19 launch, based on patterns seen at GTA V.
An economist at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona has estimated that about 1.5 million US workers may take sick leave to play Grand Theft Auto VI when it launches on November 19, according to a report by GamesRadar. With average annual output per US worker at about $70,000, those temporary absences could mean roughly $1 billion in short-term productivity loss.
The estimate is a rough calculation built on leave and absence patterns seen around the launch of the earlier Grand Theft Auto V, not an official economic forecast. Men aged 18 to 30 were identified as the group most likely to take leave or sick days on launch day, with the tech industry among the sectors that could be affected.
The analysis also suggested that lower focus among employees who do come to work could reduce productivity further. Some companies were reported to be considering closing or adjusting work schedules on the Grand Theft Auto VI launch day.
Offsetting factors
The analysis said sales and related spending from Grand Theft Auto VI for Rockstar Games and parent Take-Two Interactive could offset much of the productivity loss, so a real blow to the overall US economy is unlikely.
Quick answers
When does Grand Theft Auto VI launch?
Grand Theft Auto VI is scheduled to launch on November 19.
How much productivity loss could GTA VI cause?
An economist estimated roughly $1 billion in short-term US productivity loss, based on about 1.5 million workers taking leave and average annual output of about $70,000 per worker.
Is the GTA VI productivity estimate an official forecast?
No. It is a rough calculation based on leave and absence patterns around the earlier Grand Theft Auto V launch.