Take-Two Interactive, the publisher of the Grand Theft Auto franchise, was a frontrunner in establishing the $70 price point for premium AAA game releases. Concerns exist that this pricing strategy might escalate with the upcoming Grand Theft Auto VI.
While a standard edition of GTA VI might remain within the $70 range, avoiding a price hike to $80-$100, industry insiders suggest a premium edition priced between $100-$150 could be offered, potentially including early access benefits.
According to Tez2, a reputable gaming insider, Rockstar/Take-Two will adopt a novel approach with GTA VI. Unlike previous titles, GTA VI Online will be sold separately at launch, while the story mode will be part of a comprehensive package encompassing both components.
This dual-release strategy necessitates a careful consideration of pricing. The cost of the standalone online component will influence the base game price. Furthermore, the price of upgrading to the full story mode for those who initially purchased only the online version needs to be determined.
By strategically lowering the price of the online version, Take-Two could potentially attract a wider player base, including those unable to afford the full $70 or $80 game. This approach offers a significant advantage, as these players would likely upgrade to access the story mode. Conversely, some players might desire the story mode but lack the funds for an upgrade, presenting another revenue opportunity.
Take-Two could further capitalize on this by offering a subscription service similar to Xbox Game Pass, leveraging GTA+. Players who opt for continuous gameplay via subscription, rather than saving for an upgrade, would generate consistent revenue for the company. This represents yet another potential avenue for increased profitability for Take-Two.
