Take-Two Interactive, the publisher behind the iconic Grand Theft Auto series, has been at the forefront of setting a new standard with the $70 price tag for AAA video game releases. With the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6), there's speculation that Take-Two might push the envelope even further on pricing. While the base version of GTA 6 might remain within the $70 range, there are whispers from industry insiders suggesting the possibility of a special edition priced between $100 and $150, which could include perks such as early access.
Tez2, a known insider, shared additional insights: "Rockstar and Take-Two have already separated GTA Online and Red Dead Online from their base games, but GTA 6 will mark a significant shift by selling the online component separately right from launch. The story mode will be bundled into what's being called a 'complete package' that includes both the online and story modes."
This new strategy raises questions about pricing. How much will the standalone online version cost, and what will be the price for the story mode upgrade for those who initially purchase only the GTA 6 Online? By potentially offering the online version at a lower price point, Take-Two could attract a broader audience, including gamers who might find the full $70 or $80 game out of their budget. These players could then opt to upgrade to access the story mode, creating an additional revenue stream for Take-Two.
Moreover, this approach opens up opportunities for subscription services similar to Game Pass. By integrating GTA+, a subscription model could keep players engaged and spending, rather than saving up for a one-time upgrade purchase. This continuous engagement could prove more lucrative for Take-Two in the long run.