Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick confirmed in an interview with Variety that pre-sales for GTA VI are running “much better than our expectations.” At the same time, he urged not to jump to conclusions:
This is good news. We never declare success before it has happened. So in just a few days, we will begin to reap the fruits of our labor.
The publisher plans to share additional information about the game's performance after the release. It is not yet known whether this will happen on launch day or during the company's next financial report.
According to recent estimates by Sensor Tower, GTA VI has allegedly sold 7.71 million copies in pre-orders, generating $751 million. About 74% of sales are on PS5, which is especially beneficial for Sony thanks to its partnership with Rockstar Games. Neither the developer nor Take-Two has yet confirmed the project's budget. Earlier, British public filings indicated that production costs for the game could exceed $2 billion.
Among the reasons cited for such a high cost are a map three times the size of the Red Dead Redemption 2 world and a team that has more than doubled since the release of the studio's previous game.
The standard edition of GTA VI costs $80, while the $100 Ultimate Edition offers exclusive access to several stores and additional bonuses. Upgrading to the expanded edition will also be possible after purchase, including for a physical copy.