Gunzilla Games CEO Addresses Worker Payment Accusations, Labels It “A New Narrative From Critics”

Gunzilla Games Responds to Worker Pay Controversy

Recent claims from both current and former employees of Gunzilla Games have emerged, alleging that the studio has failed to pay its workers for an extended period, with some reportedly waiting “for many months.”Developers have voiced their frustrations, accusing the company’s leadership of suggesting they work without compensation for the sake of pursuing ‘an idea.’ In light of these allegations, CEO Vlad Korolev issued a detailed response via X (formerly Twitter), where he dismissed the claims as “a new narrative from haters.”

Understanding Gunzilla’s Background

Gunzilla Games is recognized as the developer behind Off the Grid, an NFT battle royale title launched in 2024. The studio gained further attention when it assisted in the revitalization of Game Informer, which had been shut down by GameStop. This company, backed by prominent filmmaker Neil Blomkamp, has generated discussions around its operational practices and financial management.

Korolev’s Defense Against the Allegations

In his response, Korolev termed the accusations “FUD, ”meaning fear, uncertainty, and doubt, accusing detractors of seeking attention by targeting what he described as “the biggest web3 game ever created.”He confidently stated that Off the Grid boasts “millions of players who truly appreciate”the game, reporting an increase of 100, 000 subscribers to its premium service in 2025.

Korolev also claimed that approximately 3, 000 new players join the game daily. To substantiate his assertion, he proposed to establish a live dashboard, accessible for 100K GUN, allowing skeptics to view real-time player data. He stated, “so you can finally put real weight behind your words.”

While people who have never played OTG and have never built a business sit and spread FUD to farm a few views — targeting the biggest web3 game ever created, a game that represents not only itself but the entire web3 gaming industry in front of traditional gaming — we will keep…

— Vlad Korolev (@VladK133) April 9, 2026

Challenges and Claims of a Crunch Culture

Korolev emphasized the studio’s commitment to delivering a top-tier game, acknowledging the intense workload involved. He stated, “within 6 years, there has never been a single day where anyone worked in a ‘work-life balance’ mode, ”emphasizing the continuous effort to match large-scale projects akin to Call of Duty generated by an independent studio.

Despite boasting about the success of Off the Grid, Korolev addressed the salary delay allegations more directly, asserting that no employee has encountered a payment delay exceeding one week. He attributed those delays, when they occurred, to company decisions aimed at maintaining operational stability and managing cash flow effectively.

A Response to Industry Comparisons and Ethics

Korolev replied to the backlash stating, “Today there is a new narrative from haters, ”suggesting cost optimization strategies are necessary within the gaming and tech industries. He noted that although payments might be staggered for operational reasons, the interests of players and full-time employees have always been safeguarded.

He further disputed claims made by vocal critics, highlighting that one outspoken contractor had received prompt payment after completing their tenure just a week ago.

Critique of Financial Management and Industry Ethics

However, the juxtaposition of his remarkable claims regarding the game’s success with the reported financial issues allows for a critical analysis of Korolev’s statements. If Off the Grid is genuinely thriving, why would the studio struggle to meet payroll obligations? Critics demand transparency regarding both player metrics and financial health, raising concerns about the conditions under which developers are expected to work.

Only two former employees have publicly confirmed receipt of overdue payments. One revealed they were compensated only after taking to social media, while another needed legal intervention to receive their dues.

Industry Reactions and the Call for Accountability

In the wake of these revelations, other industry leaders have spoken out against Gunzilla Games.Scott Albright, CEO of Combat Waffle Studios, expressed his disbelief and disappointment with Korolev’s leadership. Albright’s remarks, shared on his LinkedIn page, were scathing: “If you run a studio and don’t pay your team, you are not a founder, you are not a leader, you are disgusting.”His remarks capture a sentiment within the industry that condemns poor leadership practices while highlighting a pressing need for accountability in how studios manage their workforce.”

Albright’s position underscores a crucial point: effective leadership in the gaming industry is inextricably linked to ethical financial practices. Failing to meet payment obligations to employees can have far-reaching consequences, both for the affected individuals and the broader reputation of the studio involved.

Ultimately, the narrative surrounding Gunzilla Games serves as a reminder of the importance of transparent, ethical practices within the gaming industry. The discrepancy between financial prosperity and employee welfare can lead to a harmful culture that undermines the very creativity that drives the industry forward.

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