Grand Theft Auto 6 is the game everyone is eagerly awaiting in 2025. With it comes a question that’s already causing a stir: how much will it cost? Since 2020, the standard price for AAA games has been set at $70, but some industry analysts and experts hope that Rockstar, the publisher of GTA, will dare to raise it to $80 or even $100. Such a decision could disrupt the habits of gamers and the market.
Why This Record Price?
In a report on the state of the video game industry in 2025, Matthew Ball, CEO of Epyllion, explained that the industry is going through a complicated phase. Budgets are skyrocketing, player expectations are increasing, but prices are stagnating. Ball estimates that, when adjusted for inflation, older GTA titles would cost over $90 today. In essence, a $70 price tag for GTA 6 would be almost “cheap.”
The idea behind a price increase is to reflect these economic realities and set a precedent: if GTA 6 costs $100, other games might follow suit. The goal? To give a much-needed boost to an industry where development costs are reaching new heights, but margins aren’t keeping pace.
A Risky Bet for Rockstar
While some publishers and developers see this increase favorably, not everyone shares this sentiment. Michael Douse, a director at Larian Studios (Baldur’s Gate 3), reacted on Twitter, saying, “You’re not supposed to say that out loud!” For him, the issue isn’t just the price but also the promise behind it. At $100, the game must be flawless.
Another point of criticism is that, even with a higher price, it’s unlikely this money will go directly to the developers. Price increases could simply boost investor profits without addressing the massive layoffs that have plagued the industry for years.
Gamers Held Hostage?
We know GTA 6 will be a hit, no matter the price. But can all games follow this logic? Probably not. Moreover, gamers, already facing rampant inflation in their daily lives, might be reluctant to see prices soar.
For Rockstar, the solution could be a hybrid strategy: offering a standard version at $70 and premium editions at higher prices, including bonus content or early access. This model, already used by several publishers, could maximize revenue without overly alienating players.
Conclusion
Ultimately, GTA 6 might mark a turning point in video game history. But one thing is sure: if Rockstar sets the bar too high, players might not follow. We’re curious to see how this will play out, but at $100, it better be worth it… or you might see a lot of players opting out.
