Rockstar Games said today that Grand Theft Auto VI will be priced at $79.99 for the Standard Edition [1].

The pricing strategy marks a significant shift for the gaming industry as one of the most anticipated titles in history pushes the cost of entry higher than the traditional $60 or $70 price points. This move may signal a broader trend in AAA game pricing as development costs continue to rise.

The company also said an Ultimate Edition will retail for $99.99 [2]. This premium version is designed to differentiate itself from the base game by offering exclusive content, and bonuses to players who pay the higher price [3].

Rockstar Games said those who purchase the Standard Edition will not have access to all of the game's locations [4]. This creates a direct link between the financial investment of the consumer and the amount of playable content available at launch.

The announcement was distributed globally through official company channels [5]. Pre-orders for the different editions are now live, allowing consumers to choose between the two tiers based on their budget, and desired level of access to the game world [6].

While the Standard Edition provides the core experience, the Ultimate Edition is positioned as the comprehensive package for enthusiasts. The pricing reflects the scale of the project and the expected demand for the title upon its release [7].

“Standard Edition will be priced at $79.99”

The decision to price the base game at $79.99 suggests that Rockstar Games believes the market can sustain a new, higher price floor for premium titles. By gating specific locations behind a $99.99 Ultimate Edition, the company is implementing a tiered access model that maximizes revenue from high-spending consumers while potentially alienating those who expect a complete experience at the standard price.