As excitement for Grand Theft Auto VI continues to build, many gamers are only now realizing just how expensive it was to bring GTA V to life—and unsurprisingly, it didn’t come cheap.

When Rockstar Games first launched GTA V in 2013 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, it immediately became a cultural phenomenon. The title was later expanded across several generations of consoles, solidifying itself as one of the most successful games in history. Even a decade later, it continues to break sales records and remains a favorite among players worldwide.

According to Statista, by May 2025, GTA V had already sold over 215 million copies globally, and with GTA VI on the horizon, those figures are expected to climb even higher.

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The Cost Behind GTA V

A Reddit post from years ago resurfaced with details that shocked many fans: producing GTA V reportedly required a budget of around $265 million. Even more impressive, Rockstar Games recovered that amount in just three days, with sales reaching the $1 billion mark almost instantly after launch.

Fast forward to today, and an analysis from Radio Times estimated that GTA V has earned roughly $8.6 billion since its release—steadily inching closer to the $10 billion milestone. To put it in perspective, GTA V’s production cost was higher than most modern AAA titles, even without factoring in marketing expenses.

What Could GTA VI Cost?

While Rockstar hasn’t officially revealed GTA VI’s production budget, speculation has been running wild. Industry whispers suggest that the game might carry a $1 billion price tag, which would make it the most expensive video game ever developed. However, these claims remain unconfirmed and should be taken cautiously until Rockstar shares concrete details.

Still, considering the advancements in technology, the scale of modern open-world environments, and Rockstar’s reputation for pushing boundaries, it wouldn’t be surprising if GTA VI sets a new record in development costs.

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What We Know About GTA VI So Far

The official description paints a thrilling picture: “Jason and Lucia have always known the odds were against them. But after a job goes wrong, the two find themselves caught in the darkest corners of Leonida, forced to rely on each other if they want to survive.”

Fans will also be delighted to learn that the game’s story will take place in a vibrant reimagining of Vice City, promising a mix of sun-soaked beaches, neon nightlife, and high-stakes crime. With Rockstar’s storytelling pedigree, expectations are already sky-high.

When Will GTA VI Be Released?

As of now, GTA VI is scheduled to launch on May 26, 2026 for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. However, like many large-scale projects, delays are always a possibility. A PC version has not yet been announced, though history suggests it will likely follow sometime after the console debut.

The Future of Rockstar’s Legacy

If the rumored budget is accurate, GTA VI will not just represent the most expensive game ever developed but could also become the most profitable. GTA V’s success has already set the bar incredibly high, and millions of fans worldwide are eager to see how Rockstar plans to outdo itself with its next release.

One thing is certain: whether it’s the record-breaking costs, the immersive storytelling, or the sheer anticipation, GTA VI is already shaping up to be a historic moment in gaming.