Sony Europe's former CEO disclosed an intriguing strategy that significantly boosted the PlayStation 2's (PS2) market dominance: securing exclusive rights to Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto (GTA) series before the Xbox hit the market. This move not only enhanced PS2's sales but also cemented its legacy as the best-selling console of all time. Let's delve into the details of this strategic coup and its lasting impact.

Sony Signed Special Deals for PS2

Acquiring Exclusive Rights to GTA Paid Off

In an enlightening interview with GamesIndustry.biz at EGX in London last October, Chris Deering, the former CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, revealed the motivations behind securing GTA for PS2. With the imminent launch of the original Xbox in 2001, Sony proactively approached third-party developers and publishers to secure exclusive deals for the PlayStation 2, ensuring their games would be PS2 exclusives for two years. Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games, agreed to this arrangement, leading to the release of three GTA titles—GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas—exclusively on the PS2.

Deering shared the underlying concern that fueled this strategy: "We were worried when we saw Xbox coming." The fear was that Microsoft might lure developers with exclusive deals to enhance the Xbox's game library. Sony's preemptive move was a calculated risk, but as it turned out, a very rewarding one.

Despite the massive success of GTA 1 and GTA 2, Deering admitted to initial doubts about GTA 3's potential, given its shift from a top-down perspective to a 3D environment. However, the gamble paid off spectacularly, contributing significantly to the PS2's status as the best-selling console ever. Deering noted, "It was very lucky for us. And actually lucky for them, because they got a discount on the royalty they paid." Such exclusive deals, he pointed out, are not uncommon in industries with platforms, including modern sectors like social media.

Rockstar Games’ Leap to 3D Environment

Grand Theft Auto III marked a pivotal moment for the franchise by introducing a 3D environment, moving away from the top-down view of its predecessors. This transition redefined open-world gaming, transforming Liberty City into a vibrant, interactive metropolis teeming with sidequests and activities.

In a November 2021 interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Rockstar co-founder Jaime King explained that the shift to 3D was contingent on finding the right technology. "From a storytelling perspective, we knew it would be much more immersive if you could actually get down to the streets and go 3D," he stated. The PS2 provided the perfect platform for Rockstar to realize this vision, setting a new standard for future GTA titles. Despite the PS2's technical limitations, the three GTA games released for it became some of the console's top-selling titles.

Why is Rockstar Games Silent About GTA 6?

York also reminisced about the joy the development team derived from fan theories, citing the famous Mt. Chiliad mystery from GTA V as an example. Although some mysteries remain unsolved, York assured that "All the developers over there are geeking out about it, trust me." This strategy not only keeps the community engaged but also maintains a high level of interest in the upcoming GTA 6, despite the limited information released so far.