Friday's Games Inbox features reader reactions to the Grand Theft Auto 6 leaks, an EA executive's comments about job losses, and a reader's hesitation about purchasing a Switch 2 before an anticipated price increase. Readers also share their thoughts on 007 First Light and the upcoming The Duskbloods network test.
GTA 6 Leaks and Legal Consequences
One reader, Colm, expressed shock at the ongoing GTA 6 leaks, suggesting the leakers are likely teenage kids who are now in serious legal jeopardy. “Rockstar is going to come down on them like a ton of bricks,” Colm wrote, noting that the leakers’ attempt to monetize the leaks with a poll about what to reveal next will worsen their legal situation. The reader predicted the leakers could face jail time, all to reveal that GTA 6 includes basketball two weeks before an official announcement. Colm also criticized online fans for encouraging such behavior, saying, “The hackers have just ruined their lives, forever, but they’re encouraged by legions of conspiracy theory loving ‘fans’ that egg on leakers.”
EA Executive Controversy and Reader Boycott
Another reader, Taylor Moon, commented on an EA executive mocking people who are about to lose their jobs, calling it a mix of evil and incompetence. Moon declared a personal boycott of EA games, stating, “I don’t care how good that Star Wars game looks, and it does look very good, because I wouldn’t even dream of giving EA money now.” However, the reader acknowledged the limited impact of such a boycott due to the popularity of EA’s sports titles, quoting, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
007 First Light and Game of the Year Prospects
Reader Korey praised 007 First Light, calling it “pretty much flawless” and highlighting its story, acting, graphics, action, and stealth. Korey expressed sympathy for the game’s release timing, noting it will likely not win Game of the Year due to GTA 6’s launch, but hopes for a sequel. “IO Interactive should feel very proud of themselves for what they’ve made,” Korey wrote.
Leaked Footage and Launch Day Experience
Michael Veal admitted to watching leaked GTA 6 footage for about a minute, comparing it to “illicitly peeking at a present before I’d received it.” Veal argued that leaks and trailers dilute the launch day experience, saying, “Keeping yourself in the dark about a highly anticipated game makes the experience of playing and exploring its world so much better.” Veal also avoids movie trailers to preserve the surprise.
Indie Games and the GTA 6 Vacuum
Reader Bitey suggested indie games have little to fear from GTA 6’s release, as a £10 indie shooter is “so completely different” from GTA 6. However, regular published games face more trouble, and the reader speculated that GTA 6 could either kill off AA games or help them succeed as people ignore more expensive AAA titles.
Switch 2 Purchase Dilemma and Price Concerns
Reader Marc noted that retailers have been selling the Switch 2 below its £395 RRP, often around £375 or £380 at stores like Argos and John Lewis. Marc is waiting for more information about rumored new LCD screens to address ghosting issues in fast-paced titles, but acknowledged that no new rumors have emerged in the last month. GC commented that a revision seems inevitable but could be a year or two away.
Console Sales and Future Predictions
Reader Benjy Dog expressed concern about December console sales, even with GTA 6’s release, predicting that buyers will already own a console. “If even that doesn’t create a blip in console sales, then Sony is in real trouble,” Benjy Dog wrote, criticizing plans for a PlayStation 6 as making no sense.
Live Service Games and Corporate Accountability
Reader Focus criticized the live service game trend, noting that Sony’s Fairgames cancellation could lead to studio closures. The reader pointed out that millions of dollars and thousands of jobs have been lost, with only Helldivers 2, a game Sony didn’t develop, being a hit. “Have they really learnt anything? Will they go all in on the next fad and waste time and money before they realise that’s a waste of time too?” Focus asked.
The Duskbloods Network Test and Xbox Sales Reporting
Reader Keef inquired if GC will play The Duskbloods network test this weekend, to which GC responded, “We have our codes ready to go, yes.” Keef also noted that Xbox has stopped reporting digital sales in the US and Europe, making it impossible to know how well anything sells.
