GTA 3's PS2 Exclusivity: Xbox's Debut Influence

Sony's PS2 GTA Exclusivity: A Strategic Masterstroke Against Xbox

The former CEO of Sony Europe revealed a key strategic move: securing exclusive rights to Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto franchise for the PlayStation 2, preempting the launch of Microsoft's Xbox. This decision significantly boosted PS2 sales and cemented its place in gaming history.

Securing Exclusive Rights: A Calculated Risk

Chris Deering, former CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, explained in a GamesIndustry.biz interview that the looming Xbox launch in 2001 spurred Sony to proactively secure exclusive deals with third-party developers and publishers. Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar Games' parent company, accepted this offer, resulting in a two-year exclusivity period for GTA III, Vice City, and San Andreas on the PS2. Deering admitted to concerns about Microsoft potentially making similar exclusive deals to strengthen the Xbox's game library.

While the earlier top-down GTA titles were successful, Deering initially had reservations about GTA III's potential due to its shift to a 3D format. However, the gamble paid off handsomely, contributing significantly to the PS2's record-breaking sales. The deal proved beneficial for both Sony and Rockstar, with Rockstar receiving reduced royalty payments. This type of platform-exclusive deal, Deering noted, remains common in various industries, including social media.

Rockstar's 3D Revolution and the PS2

Grand Theft Auto III's transition to a 3D environment marked a pivotal moment in the franchise. Rockstar co-founder, Jaime King, stated in a November 2021 GamesIndustry.biz interview that the company had been waiting for the right technology to make this leap, recognizing the enhanced immersion 3D offered. The PS2 provided the necessary capabilities, allowing Rockstar to realize their vision and establish the formula for future GTA games. Despite the PS2's technical limitations, the three exclusive GTA titles became some of the console's best-selling games.

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