The highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6 is already having an impact on workplaces across the UK, with thousands of employees reportedly planning to take time off to get their hands on the new game.

After years of anticipation, GTA 6 is scheduled to launch worldwide on 19 November, marking the arrival of the latest instalment in one of the most successful gaming franchises of all time.

However, while many fans are preparing to spend hours exploring the game's latest open world, employers could be facing a considerable number of annual leave requests, as workers make arrangements to ensure they are free on release day.

According to HR specialist BrightHR, there has been a significant increase in employees requesting annual leave around the game's launch, with some workers being particularly upfront about the reason behind their requests. The company's findings suggest that GTA 6 is proving to be a bigger reason for people to book time off than going on honeymoon, with five per cent of all annual leave requests for 19 November reportedly being made specifically so employees can play the game.

Across the UK, approximately 83,000 days off have been booked in connection with the release, with the financial impact of paid leave potentially reaching £12.4 million for businesses. Around £3.14 million of that figure is expected to relate specifically to 19 November.

Some employees have also made little effort to disguise their plans, with BrightHR revealing some of the unusual explanations included in annual leave requests.

Among the subject lines reportedly used by workers were 'GTA week on the sofa in my pants' and 'GTA day. Game on, losers'.

The figures highlight just how much excitement surrounds the release, particularly given that the Grand Theft Auto franchise has built a huge following over the years, with each new instalment attracting significant attention from gaming fans.

BrightHR chief executive Alan Price also weighed in on the trend, suggesting that employers should not automatically dismiss requests simply because employees want to spend their time off playing a video game. He said:

“Some bosses might roll their eyes at time off to game, but they shouldn’t view it as time wasted. Taking gaming time off is every bit as valid as booking annual leave for a football match, a concert or a hen do.”

Price also encouraged employers to consider their staffing arrangements before turning down requests, explaining that there should be little reason to refuse employees if the business can continue operating without being short-staffed.

He added:

“Don't underestimate what makes your team tick," said Price. "Some employees want to see the world; others want to tear around it through a console. This is honesty and trust in action: staff are unafraid to ask for what they want.

With the release date approaching, preparations are also beginning for those who have already secured their copy of the game.

Preloading for GTA 6 is scheduled to begin on 10 November, allowing players to download the game ahead of its official release on 19 November.

The latest figures suggest that the excitement surrounding GTA 6 is extending beyond gaming communities, with businesses potentially having to navigate a significant number of employees wanting the same day off.