Pondering the Possibility of GTA 7’s Absence
With the anticipated release of GTA 6 between late 2024 and early 2025, discussions have emerged about the future of the Grand Theft Auto series. Given the decade-long gap since the last original title, there’s speculation about whether Grand Theft Auto 7 will ever materialize. This article delves into five key reasons why GTA 7 may not follow its predecessor.
“If a similar pattern is followed, there might not be a Grand Theft Auto 7 at all,” reflecting on the prolonged development cycles and changing dynamics in the gaming industry.
1) The Overwhelming Success of GTA Online
Grand Theft Auto 5, despite its compelling story mode, owes much of its longevity to Grand Theft Auto Online. The multiplayer mode’s frequent major DLCs and weekly updates have not only sustained its relevance but also turned it into a highly profitable venture for Rockstar Games.
“Rockstar Games releases major DLCs for it periodically and a weekly update every Thursday,” ensuring the enduring profitability of GTA Online.
2) The Role of Microtransactions
Microtransactions, particularly through Shark Card sales, have become a significant revenue stream for Rockstar Games. This financial model allows Rockstar to profit from GTA Online without needing to release a new title shortly after GTA 6.
“The inclusion of Shark Cards in Grand Theft Auto 6 is unconfirmed as of this writing, but they could allow Rockstar to keep profiting without releasing GTA 7.”
3) Development Time for Large-Scale Games
The leaked footage of GTA 6 suggests an ambitious scope surpassing GTA 5, raising questions about the development time needed for a hypothetical GTA 7. Rockstar might choose to focus on expanding GTA 6’s content instead of embarking on another lengthy development process.
“Instead of putting resources into a game that might take decades, Rockstar could invest them into creating new content for Grand Theft Auto 6,” a practical approach for continuous engagement.
4) The Potential of Live Service Model
Rumors and speculation, including insights from Tez2, suggest that GTA 6 may adopt a live service model. This approach could see the game evolving with new areas, content, and possibly DLCs, reducing the need for a separate GTA 7.
“Rockstar could update the game’s map, introducing new areas and cities…,” demonstrating how GTA 6 could continuously evolve, making a new title unnecessary.
5) Departure of Key Rockstar Personnel
The departure of key figures like Dan Houser, Leslie Benzies, and Lazlow Jones from Rockstar Games has raised concerns about the studio’s capacity to produce a title that resonates with the series’ legacy. This change in creative leadership might influence the decision against developing GTA 7.
“Making a new title without them might be challenging for the studio,” suggesting a potential shift in Rockstar’s focus post-GTA 6.
Reflecting on GTA’s Evolution and Future
As the gaming community anticipates the release of GTA 6, the conversation about the series’ future remains open. While the possibility of a Grand Theft Auto 7 is uncertain, the strategies and changes within Rockstar Games point towards a future where evolving existing titles might outweigh the creation of new ones. The landscape of gaming continues to shift, and with it, the Grand Theft Auto series may also chart a new course.
