Insider: GTA 6 special edition and additional GTA Online payments can cost up to $150

Take-Two Interactive, the publisher behind the iconic Grand Theft Auto series, has been at the forefront of setting a new standard with a $70 price point for AAA titles. As anticipation builds for Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6), there's speculation that Take-Two might push the envelope even further with its pricing strategy.

While the basic version of GTA 6 is expected to maintain the $70 price range, avoiding a jump to $80-$100, insiders suggest that a premium edition could be priced between $100 and $150, offering perks like early access. This approach aligns with industry trends where special editions provide additional value to justify higher costs.

Tez2, a notable insider, has shared insights indicating a significant shift in how GTA 6 will be sold. Unlike previous titles where GTA Online and Red Dead Online were later add-ons, GTA 6 will launch with its online component sold separately. The story mode will be bundled in a "complete package" that includes both the online and story modes.

This new model raises questions about the pricing structure. How much will the standalone online version cost, and what will be the price for upgrading to the story mode for those who initially purchase just the online component? By offering a lower-priced online version, Take-Two could attract a broader audience, including those who might find the full $70 or $80 game out of their budget. This strategy could entice players to eventually upgrade to access the story mode, creating a lucrative upgrade path.

Moreover, Take-Two could leverage this model to introduce a subscription service similar to Game Pass, such as GTA+. This would encourage continuous engagement from players who might otherwise save up for a one-time upgrade. By keeping players subscribed and engaged, Take-Two stands to generate ongoing revenue, further solidifying their position in the market.