It is now three years since the release of "Grand Theft Auto 5," but game developer Rockstar Games has not yet announced the next installment in the "Grand Theft Auto" franchise. There are speculations that the delay for the next installment in the series may be because of the massive success of "GTA Online."
Rockstar Games is now concentrating on releasing new content, deals, and special events for "Grand Theft Auto Online." Seemingly, the strategy has proven to be very profitable for the company. Although "GTA Online" is free to play, the game has several microtransactions to help gamers improve their gameplay experience.
In fact, there is currently a lawsuit filed by former Rockstar North president, Leslie Benzie, against Take-Two Interactive, revealing that "GTA Online" has garnered a minimum of $500 million from the microtransactions, according to GameSpot. In addition, these earnings do not come as a surprise since more than 8 million people reportedly play the game weekly.
The success of "GTA Online" makes it irrational for the developer company to churn out "Grand Theft Auto 6" in the near future. Apparently, Rockstar is yet to release any DLC for "Grand Theft Auto 5." As opposed to developing the storyline for "GTA 5," the company has focused on selling properties, cars, weapons, and outfits to loyal gamers.
Similarly, a report from Forbes supports the fact that the success of "GTA Online" will great influence the release of "GTA 6." When the game developer will eventually decide to push through with the next installment in the "GTA" series, there are high chances that it will include many aspects that made "GTA Online" so popular and lucrative.
For now, it seems as if Rockstar has delayed "Grand Theft Auto 6" indefinitely. Speculations have it that the earliest likely release date for "GTA 6" is 2018.
"GTA Online" is currently available for PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and PC. Fans will have to remain patient to have an official word from Rockstar concerning its next installment in the "GTA" franchise.
Watch the footage below to have a glimpse of what "GTA 6" will look like when it finally comes out.