New Mexico faces $1.38 million wage loss as 5,700 workers skip jobs for GTA 6

New Mexico could lose approximately $1.38 million in wages when more than 5,700 residents take time off work to play Grand Theft Auto VI.

Amazon Slots released a study projecting these economic impacts for the game's release on November 19. The title arrives after a 13-year wait, creating significant anticipation among players.

The researchers calculated the cost by analyzing gamer behavior plans and cross-referencing them with Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This methodology estimated the total wage loss for the state.

Alejandra Emms, a local resident, plans to take two days of paid time off to play the game. She estimates she will spend about 25 hours on the title during her break. Emms said, “I am excited, I’ve been waiting since it’s been announced, I love all the GTA games.”

Anders Hansen, an assistant manager at a local GameStop, noted that the excitement extends beyond typical video game demographics. He said, “It’s not just our regulars or people into video games there’s older people, there’s younger people, it’s generational for sure.”

The study indicates the national impact will be much larger. Across the United States, the game could result in more than $300 million in lost wages.