GTA V vs GTA VI: In the ever-changing world of gaming, few titles have managed to stay at the top as long as Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V). Released in 2013, Rockstar Games’ blockbuster has not just broken records—it has redefined what success looks like in the gaming industry. Spanning three console generations and raking in billions in revenue, GTA V has been a cultural phenomenon.
But with GTA VI looming on the horizon, gamers are asking the big question: Is the reign of GTA V finally coming to an end? New sales data from Take-Two Interactive offers fascinating insights into the game’s unstoppable run—and what might be next.
GTA V: The Unstoppable Sales Juggernaut
When GTA V launched in September 2013, few could have predicted the journey it would take. More than a decade later, it continues to sell millions of copies every year. According to Take-Two Interactive’s latest investor report, GTA V has now sold over 215 million copies worldwide.
Incredibly, the game added another 5 million sales in the most recent quarter alone—a remarkable achievement for a title this old.
One of the biggest reasons for this continued success is GTA Online. The constantly updated online multiplayer mode offers fresh content, seasonal events, and missions that keep players engaged. Even after finishing the single-player story, fans keep coming back to explore, compete, and create within the massive open world.
Rockstar also boosted GTA V’s lifespan by releasing enhanced versions for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, featuring improved graphics, faster load times, and quality-of-life upgrades. These next-gen versions have attracted a new wave of players, ensuring that GTA V stays relevant in a competitive market.
How GTA V Stacks Up Against Gaming’s Biggest Hits?
While GTA V’s numbers are jaw-dropping, it’s not the best-selling video game of all time. That crown belongs to Minecraft, which has surpassed 350 million copies sold.
However, comparing the two is tricky. Minecraft is available on almost every platform imaginable—from PC and consoles to mobile devices—and appeals to all age groups. GTA V, on the other hand, is a mature-rated open-world crime game with a narrower demographic.
The fact that GTA V even comes close to Minecraft’s sales despite these limitations is a huge testament to Rockstar’s global reach.
Rockstar’s Other Big Hit: Red Dead Redemption Series
Take-Two’s report also highlighted the success of another Rockstar gem—the Red Dead Redemption franchise. Combined sales for the series have exceeded 104 million copies, with Red Dead Redemption 2 alone selling 77 million.
This reinforces Rockstar’s reputation for creating some of the most immersive, best-selling open-world games in history.
GTA VI: The Most Anticipated Game in History?
While GTA V’s success is extraordinary, the spotlight is quickly shifting to GTA VI. Take-Two’s investor update didn’t include sales figures—obviously, since the game isn’t out yet—but it did hint at the unprecedented hype surrounding the release.
When GTA VI Trailer 2 dropped in May, it made history by becoming the biggest cross-platform video launch ever, amassing over 475 million views within 24 hours across YouTube, social media, and other platforms.
This staggering number proves that GTA VI is more than just a game launch—it’s a global cultural event.
Could GTA VI Break Every Sales Record?
Given the massive success of GTA V and the hype surrounding GTA VI, analysts predict record-breaking launch sales. With the enormous install base of PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC gamers, GTA VI could sell tens of millions of copies within its first weeks.
It’s entirely possible that GTA VI will debut straight into the top 10 best-selling games of all time, potentially even challenging GTA V’s lifetime sales in the years ahead.
The Legacy of GTA V
Even if GTA VI steals the spotlight, GTA V’s impact on gaming culture is unmatched. It has shown that a well-crafted game, supported by constant updates and a strong community, can remain relevant for over a decade.
From its groundbreaking single-player story to the endless fun of GTA Online, GTA V has set the standard for what an open-world game can achieve—both creatively and commercially.
Final Thoughts
GTA V’s dominance is far from over, but the arrival of GTA VI will mark a new chapter in gaming history. Whether or not the new title dethrones its predecessor, Rockstar Games has proven one thing: the Grand Theft Auto franchise isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
With GTA VI already breaking trailer records before launch, the gaming world is bracing for what could be the biggest release ever. And if history is any indication, Rockstar’s next masterpiece will not just meet expectations—it will shatter them.
