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GTA VI Hype Meets Sticker Shock for Gamers
26 Jun
Summary
- Console prices have significantly increased since their launch.
- GTA VI faces higher purchase costs for potential players.
- Rising hardware expenses may limit the game's initial audience.
The upcoming launch of Grand Theft Auto VI on November 19th is poised to be a significant cultural event, potentially driving console sales. However, potential buyers face a steep challenge: the hardware required to play the game has become prohibitively expensive. The PlayStation 5, which launched at $499.99, now costs $649.99, with the PS5 Pro reaching $899.99.
Microsoft's current-gen consoles have also seen multiple price increases, with the Xbox Series S at $499.99 and the Series X at $799.99. These price hikes, occurring after the initial release, go against the conventional wisdom of consoles becoming cheaper over time. This is particularly impactful for GTA VI, a game many have eagerly awaited.
Beyond the console costs, GTA VI itself is priced at $79.99, and its physical version lacks a disc. Nevertheless, the primary concern for the game's success is the rising cost of consoles. Even if every current PS5 and Xbox Series X/S owner purchased GTA VI, it would not reach the sales figures of GTA V, which has sold 230 million copies. With PS5 sales reportedly declining due to new pricing, the hardware affordability crisis could severely limit the game's initial reach.
