The possibility of Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) hitting stores with a high price gained momentum after the Swiss store Brack.ch listed the game for 99 Swiss francs (CHF), the equivalent of approximately US$112 (around R$700). The store took down the page, but the information generated significant backlash among gamers, who fear a new price threshold for AAA games.
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The price attracted attention because it was well above the current standard, which is around $70 for new releases in major franchises. Shortly after, the store removed the listing. However, this raised questions about a possible error or Take-Two Interactive's intention to actually raise GTA 6's initial price.
The company has indicated in previous statements that it expects a significant financial return from the game, driven by the success of GTA 5 and the franchise's growing appreciation. Therefore, the possibility of a higher price tag doesn't surprise industry analysts. However, there is still no official confirmation regarding the suggested price for the game.
Pre-sale and expectations increase speculation about the final price
While the listed price may have been an error or a simple placeholder, the movement of international retailers suggests that pre-orders for the game are imminent. In Malaysia, for example, some stores are already accepting advance payments of US$3 to secure a copy of the game as soon as it becomes available.
The strategy of keeping promotional material to a minimum also contributes to speculation. So far, Rockstar Games has only released an official trailer for GTA 6 and has avoided giving any details about the game. The company is expected to announce the release date and other relevant information unexpectedly, as it has done with previous releases.
On the other hand, the impact on consumers could be significant. Although the GTA franchise has a loyal following and guaranteed sales, a price increase could drive away players who aren't willing to spend as much. Furthermore, it could accelerate the search for alternatives, such as promotional editions, game service subscriptions, or even purchases on parallel markets.
Does inflation justify the higher price?
The potential price increase could be explained by the impact of inflation over the years. According to calculations by the website ScreenRant, the first GTA, released in 1997 for around $50, would cost approximately $100 today, adjusting for inflation.
Even so, the acceptance of a higher price will depend on public perception. Although GTA 6 is one of the most anticipated games of the decade, the price can influence purchasing decisions, especially in a market where subscription services like Game Pass are gaining traction.
Rockstar has confirmed that the game will be released in late 2025 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, but a PC version is expected to take at least another year. Until then, fans await new information and official confirmation of the price, which could redefine industry standards.
