GTA VI for PC will not be released in 2025, as fans of the Grand Theft Auto franchise may already be aware. A former Rockstar Games animator has detailed the reasons behind the extended development time for PC versions of console games like GTA.
Former developer provides insight into the launch delay reasons.
Mike York, a former Rockstar Games animator, recently discussed in a YouTube video the reasons behind the delayed release of the PC version of GTA, as seen with GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2.
Mike explains that developers take their time to ensure the PC version is of the highest quality after the console launch, which also impacts game sales.
In previous times, the PlayStation version was often the top-selling console, attracting the majority of gamers.
When GTA 5 came out, Mike mentioned that the developers were concentrating on optimizing the PlayStation version.
During my time working on GTA 5, we concentrated on optimizing the game for PS3 and Xbox consoles. Our primary focus was pushing the limits of the PS3 due to its superior hardware capabilities at the time in terms of memory and other aspects.
Rockstar Games ensured that GTA V was optimized for PS3 before porting it to Xbox to release simultaneously on both Sony and Microsoft consoles. The PC version was always a secondary consideration, according to Mike.
There is typically a PC version of the game available, but it lacks refinement and serves mainly to support and enable the other game versions.
Mike mentioned that the PC release of GTA will happen after the PlayStation version is running smoothly with good FPS and minimal bugs. Rockstar Games titles usually receive updates to enhance performance, which can take some time.
When you are ready to release the game after ensuring it performs well on PlayStation with good graphics, smooth gameplay, and minimal bugs, you can shift your focus towards the PC platform.
When developers begin creating the PC version, they aim to include improvements and additions that are achievable because of the increased processing power of the hardware, including the CPU and GPU, as well as the expanded memory capacity.
When developers transition to the PC version, they are able to explore new possibilities and enhancements, such as utilizing additional memory for features like increased fog that may have been restricted on consoles.
The variance in architecture between consoles and PCs is another factor hindering the prompt release of the GTA PC version.
The graphics card in a PlayStation and an Xbox is consistent due to having the same architecture. Conversely, PCs vary as each user has a unique setup with different hardware, CPUs, and GPUs.
The game’s performance on PC may be impacted by memory usage and background processes, which underscores the importance of thorough testing specifically for PC versions. Testing for PC may require more attention and effort compared to console versions like Xbox or PlayStation.
