Video games are expensive to produce, and that was certainly true when Grand Theft Auto 5 launched in 2013. As the release of GTA 6 approaches, analysts have uncovered just how much Rockstar is investing in its development—and the figures are truly staggering.
GTA 6 might be the most anticipated game of all time. Since the first trailer dropped in December 2023, players have been eagerly scouring for any details they can find. One of the most intriguing aspects of game development is the amount of money companies pour into creating these massive experiences. With GTA V setting new records for map size in the series and the next installment expected to surpass it, the cost behind these ambitious projects is truly captivating.
Although Rockstar hasn't disclosed the exact budget, analysts have estimated the investment in the world's most famous gaming franchise—and the numbers are astonishing.
How much did GTA 5 cost to make?
Financial services firm Sterne Agee estimates Rockstar spent $137.5 million developing GTA 5. Including an approximate marketing cost between $69 million and $109.3 million, the total cost of Grand Theft Auto 5 is believed to have set the company back up to $246.8 million in total.
What is GTA 6’s budget?
If you thought Grand Theft Auto 5’s budget was big though, well, strap yourself in. Analysts predict that GTA 6’s costs sit at $2 billion. That includes development, marketing, and other expenses linked to the production and release of the game.
If you need a visualization of that, the graph below shows just how far GTA 6’s budget outstrips its predecessor.
DexertoTo truly put this into perspective, let’s look at the three most expensive games of all time. Modern Warfare 3 reportedly cost $1 billion, Red Dead Redemption 2 sits at $540 million, and Cyberpunk 2077’s budget is estimated at $436 million. You need to combine all three of those games to equal the amount Rockstar is expected to spend on Grand Theft Auto 6.
Rockstar hopes that this significant investment in the game will pay off when GTA 6 releases in 2025. It seems likely though, with GTA 5 generating close to $8 billion in revenue in the 11 years since it launched.
With in-game purchases and subscriptions like GTA+ contributing to 78% of Take-Two Interactive’s (Rockstar’s parent company) revenue in 2023, it’s expected that the developer will double down on this model, meaning Grand Theft Auto 6 could outstrip the impressive earnings of GTA 5.