Grand Theft Auto VI has yet to be released, but rumors are already circulating that it could cost $100.
Michael Pachter from Wedbush Securities thinks Rockstar might break the rules and price this above the industry standard. Pachter believes Rockstar can get away with it by including a bunch of in-game currency for GTA Online with the base game.
Game prices have been going up for the past few years. While they used to be $60, many AAA titles are now $70. A $100 GTA 6 would be a whole new ball game and could change gamers’ and publishers’ expectations.
It makes sense for Rockstar to do this given the size of the GTA Online player base. Including currency packs or exclusive online content could get fans to spend extra at launch and get perceived value beyond the single-player experience.
But this isn’t without risk. Players might not want to pony up the extra cash if they don’t feel the extra content is worth it. If Rockstar succeeds, other publishers will follow suit and the whole industry will change.
For gamers, this means rethinking their budgets and game-buying decisions. $100 games will be scrutinized more, and players will expect more quality and content to justify the price.
Ultimately, this depends on how players react and what Rockstar delivers when GTA 6 comes out.
