GTA 6 release plan attracts buzz and barbs
The upcoming release of GTA 6 has generated significant buzz and controversy among its dedicated fanbase. The article reflects on the franchise's history, from its 1997 2D origins to its evolution into a massive open-world cultural phenomenon.
Why it matters
As one of the most lucrative entertainment franchises in history, the development and release strategies of GTA 6 serve as a bellwether for the gaming industry's economic and cultural impact.
The Grand Theft Auto series is arguably the most successful – and lucrative – games franchise of all time.
There's a strong case to be made that it’s the most controversial, too.
So it probably shouldn’t be a surprise that the upcoming iteration – GTA 6 – is currently on track to smash launch day sales records.
It also shouldn’t be much of a surprise that the plan for GTA 6’s release has caused plenty of controversy too. What is surprising, though, is that the backlash has come from some of the series’ biggest fans rather than its long-time opponents.
It’s a far cry from the game’s humble beginnings.
The first GTA came out in 1997, made by a Scottish studio called DMA Design which - until that point - would have been best known as the creators of Lemmings.
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