The next GTA Online game will be a standalone release that will be sold independently from the upcoming GTA VI, based on a new rumor.
Rockstar Games insider Tez2 took to GTAForums to share that the developer will split GTA VI into two editions, where one edition will only feature a standalone online mode while the other will offer the complete package, including both the online multiplayer mode and single-player story mode. Rockstar Games and Take-Two already sell GTA Online and Red Dead Online as standalone titles. However, GTA VI will be the first entry where the online component will be offered as a standalone release from launch, while the story mode will remain part of a complete package that includes both.
This essentially means Rockstar Games and Take-Two will account for the standalone online mode when determining the price of the complete edition. How much of the base cost will be attributed to the online component, and would the upgrade cost to access the story mode would be for those who initially purchase only the online version remains unknown.
The insider mentioned that Take-Two may be looking to offer the online mode at a lower price, making it more accessible for players who may not be able to pay full price at launch. Over time, many of these players would likely upgrade to experience the full story mode, making it a beneficial strategy for the publisher. They also pointed out that this could lead to a scenario where the publisher could leverage GTA+ by offering a Game Pass-style subscription model. Instead of saving up for the upgrade, some players may opt to subscribe, generating consistent revenue for Take-Two.
According to Tez2, from a consumer standpoint, the best outcome would be if the standalone online mode is priced as low as possible and factored into the overall cost. That way, the full GTA VI package could remain at the standard $70 price rather than being pushed higher.
