With Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) on the horizon, fans have been wondering what will happen to GTA Online, the massively popular multiplayer mode that has kept players engaged for over a decade. In a recent interview with Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick, some light was shed on the future of GTA Online—and it looks like it’s here to stay, even after the release of GTA 6.
The Big Question: What Happens to GTA Online?
Since its launch in 2013, GTA Online has become a cultural phenomenon, generating billions in revenue and maintaining a dedicated player base. With GTA 6 expected to introduce a new version of GTA Online, fans have been curious about the fate of the original.
In an interview with IGN, Zelnick addressed the question, albeit in a theoretical sense. He explained that Take-Two has a history of supporting legacy titles as long as there’s a demand from players.
What Did Zelnick Say?
Zelnick used NBA 2K Online as an example, stating:
“We launched NBA 2K Online in China in 2012, and then NBA 2K Online 2 in 2017. We did not sunset Online 1. Both are still in the market, serving consumers and maintaining massive audiences. We’ve shown a willingness to support legacy titles when a community wants to be engaged with them.”
While Zelnick didn’t directly confirm GTA Online’s future, his comments suggest that the current version will continue to operate alongside its successor, as long as players remain active.
Why Keep GTA Online Running?
The decision makes financial sense. GTA Online has been a cash cow for Take-Two, generating over $8.6 billion in revenue as of January 2024. With server costs likely outweighed by ongoing profits, it’s no surprise that the company plans to keep the game alive.
What About GTA Online 2?
When GTA 6 launches, it’s expected to come with a new iteration of GTA Online. While this will likely attract a large portion of the player base, the original GTA Online could still retain a dedicated community, especially among those who prefer the current version or can’t immediately upgrade to the new game.
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While GTA 6 and its new online mode will undoubtedly take center stage, GTA Online isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. For fans who’ve invested time and money into the current version, this is great news. As Zelnick’s comments suggest, Take-Two is committed to supporting its games as long as players remain engaged.