Warhorse co-founder hopes GTA 6 will pave the way for higher game prices

Warhorse Studios co-founder Martin Klima believes Grand Theft Auto 6 could pave the way for higher video game prices. He said he does not plan to play the series himself, but wants the new installment to succeed because of its potential effect on the wider market.

Klima said game development continues to become more expensive while audience growth has largely stalled and digital marketplaces already provide the maximum return from unit sales. In his view, raising the price of each game is one of the few remaining ways to increase revenue.

GTA 6 launches at $80

Take-Two has confirmed that GTA 6 will launch at $80, $10 above the conventional price for major games. Its more expensive edition places some content behind an upgrade, making the effective price $100.

Klima described Rockstar and Take-Two as the only companies able or willing to raise prices at that level. He called the increase long overdue and necessary for the industry's survival.

Criticism without hostility toward Rockstar

In an interview with PC Gamer, Klima said Grand Theft Auto “doesn't appeal to me at all” and that he does not understand the series' popularity. He also said he bears no ill will toward Rockstar and acknowledged the technological achievement of its games.

Klima said the COVID-19 pandemic created temporary artificial demand, but that effect has faded. He linked subsequent industry layoffs and cutbacks to companies expanding excessively during the upswing.