PC gaming's 8% share of net bookings explains the hesitancy to commit to early PC releases, with piracy concerns and DRM resistance being major factors.
This just in: Grand Theft Auto 6 is still coming out to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X later this year. Unfortunately, at the same time, we also received proof that a PC version of the game isn't coming anytime soon.
As Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick confirmed that GTA 6 isn't delayed during the company's February 6 earnings call, the slides also revealed the truth behind any video game publisher's reluctance to release their games on the same day on the PC as they're launched on consoles. In Take-Two's case, we're talking about potentially billions of dollars in lost revenue if they risked listening to the usually loud subset of gamers.
The financial report revealed that console gaming accounted for 40% of the company's net bookings, while mobile gaming dominated with 52%. PC gaming, however, lagged behind at just 8% of net bookings. This disparity in platform performance explains why Take-Two is hesitant to commit to an early PC release for GTA 6 despite proof its development coming out last year.
The low percentage of PC net bookings isn't hard to explain. Piracy happens nearly all the time on the PC and the community shuns the use of DRM software. A PC release creates a lose-lose situation for any video game publisher looking to maximize profit, especially during the first year of a game's launch. Delaying the PC release of GTA 6 is a strategic move to maximize revenue and combat piracy. However, it's important to note that the PC gaming market remains significant and has its own unique advantages.
The PC platform superior graphics, modding capabilities, and longevity for games. Although frustrating for the dedicated player base of Grand Theft Auto players on the PC, the numbers just don't make sense early on in the game's lifecycle.
The good news is there's precedence that Rockstar will eventually warm up to a game's PC release. In recent years, Grand Theft Auto 5 has received plenty of quality-of-life improvements on PC, including the release of BattlEye and the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto V: Expanded and Enhanced. There's also the possibility that GTA+ on PC will follow suit ahead of the release of GTA 6 later this year.
Rockstar's ongoing success with GTA 5 and Grand Theft Auto Online demonstrates their ability to create long-lasting, engaging experiences.
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on Take-Two's Q4 results announcement in May, where everyone, including other companies like Electronic Arts and Xbox, are hoping for more clarity on the company's plans for GTA 6.
