New estimates suggest that Grand Theft Auto 6's budget is not the previously rumored $2 billion, but rather between $1 billion and $1.5 billion. This still makes it the most expensive video game ever created, with a budget three times larger than most AAA titles.
Analysts Weigh In on GTA 6 Budget
According to a report by Business Insider, industry analysts have provided updated figures for the development cost of GTA 6. The infamous 2022 Rockstar hack had suggested a $2 billion budget, but analysts now believe the actual figure is significantly lower. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick declined to comment on the specific budget during an interview, only acknowledging that the game 'was expensive.'
Even at $1 billion, GTA 6's budget far exceeds most other video games. For comparison, Sony spent $300 million on Spider-Man 2, while Activision's Call of Duty games cost upwards of $700 million. A recent report indicated that $300 million has become the new standard for current-generation triple-A games.
Why GTA 6's Budget Is So High
The massive budget is expected given GTA 6's scope, state-of-the-art graphics, and the legacy of GTA 5, the most successful traditional video game ever made. Some analysts have suggested that GTA 6 could be considered a flop if it sells only 10 million copies on its first day, though this is unlikely given that GTA 5 sold 11.21 million copies in its first 24 hours.
Post-launch support will also drive costs, with GTA Online's success guaranteeing a new online multiplayer mode for GTA 6. Rumors also suggest that GTA 6 may allow players to create and sell their own in-game content, similar to Roblox.
Unlimited Resources for Rockstar
In a separate Bloomberg interview, Zelnick hinted that Rockstar is receiving unlimited resources. 'We have the most amazing creative teams. We not only encourage them to pursue their passions, we insist that they do it. We try to give them unlimited financial, creative human resources and then they aim to deliver perfection,' Zelnick said.
While some sources predict GTA 6 could cost £100 or more, Zelnick has expressed a desire to offer the game at a 'reasonable' price.
