As Grand Theft Auto VI’s May 2026 launch approaches, pricing fears have reached fever pitch. With Nintendo charging £75 for Mario Kart World and analysts predicting $100 base prices, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick’s new comments about a “fair price” have ignited fierce debate – and deep skepticism – among fans.
Zelnick’s “Fair Price” Assurance
In a Variety interview, the executive carefully framed Rockstar’s philosophy:
“We’re focused on ensuring the experience is great… because consumers have paid a fair price for it.”
While avoiding concrete numbers, the statement implies:
- Value alignment with content scale
- Awareness of industry pricing concerns
- Recognition that GTA Online monetization (not base price) drives long-term profits
Why Fans Remain Suspicious
Despite Zelnick’s reassurance, Reddit and social media reveal widespread distrust:
“This in no way confirms they’re not going to $80.”
“They’ll make bank on Shark Cards regardless.”
“I won’t believe anything until I see PSN pre-orders.”
Three factors fuel skepticism:
- Corporate Language: Vague terms like “fair” lack commitment
- Precedent: $70+ AAA launches becoming normal
- Online Profit Focus: Fans know GTA V earned billions post-launch
The Shark Card Paradox
Players highlight a critical contradiction in pricing fears:
- Higher base price = Fewer players entering ecosystem
- Lower base price = Larger audience for GTA Online microtransactions
As one fan noted: “GTA 5 made most money from Shark Cards anyway.” This suggests Rockstar might prioritize accessibility to maximize online revenue.
Also, Read
- GTA 6 Pre-Load Appears on Xbox, But That Tiny File Size Has a Simple Explanation
- GTA 6 Trailer 3 – Why Fans Expect Late 2025 Reveal
- GTA 6 Delay Unlocks 2025’s Gaming Renaissance – “Best Year in a Decade”
When Will We Get Answers?
With pre-orders expected by late 2025, key milestones loom:
- Christmas 2025: Likely pre-order launch window
- Price Tiers: Standard vs. Premium editions
- Regional Pricing: £/€ conversions from USD
Until then, Zelnick’s words remain a Rorschach test: hopeful fans see reassurance; skeptics see corporate evasion.