Gamers were relieved to learn there was only a minimal price increase for Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) when pre-orders launched at midnight on Thursday, but some fans and retailers criticised the decision not to provide a physical disc.
Predicted to be the biggest-selling cultural product of all time, speculation had been rife that GTA VI would cost players far more than a typical high-end title.
In the end, Rockstar and parent company Take-Two Interactive announced a price tag around $10 higher than the base version in the United States, landing at $80, and $100 for an “Ultimate” edition with additional content like weapons and vehicles.
Six years of development for GTA VI are estimated to have cost up to $2 billion, which had prompted fears it could cost as much as $100.
“If there is one game that can price at $80 without garnering significant player pushback, Grand Theft Auto VI is that game given its massive scale and anticipation,” said Andrew Marok of specialist consultancy Raymond James.
