Tech analyst Ben Thompson, known for his Stratechery newsletter, has voiced a controversial opinion regarding the $80 price of Grand Theft Auto VI, suggesting that Rockstar Games should instead be charging $200 for the highly anticipated title. Thompson made his remarks on the technology daily news show TBPN, stating that the current price is "way too little."
Thompson elaborated on his view by calling GTA VI "the last great game," attributing this to its development largely predating widespread AI integration. He described the game as a "pinnacle of AAA craftsmanship," representing years of dedicated effort. This perspective, shared via a post on X (formerly Twitter), sparked discussion about the game's value and development costs.
While many players reacted to the $80 price with concerns about increasing game affordability, Thompson's take suggests an alternative view. This sentiment is echoed to some extent by venture capital analyst Matthew Ball, who had previously proposed a $100 price for GTA VI in early 2025. Ball’s suggestion aimed to address the escalating budgets in game development, and the $80 price point, with a $100 Deluxe Edition, appears to align with market shifts toward higher pricing for major releases.
The initial announcement of GTA VI's price caused Take-Two Interactive's stock to experience a decline, as the market processed the implications of the pricing for such a significant entertainment release.
Thompson also indicated he does not personally plan to play the game but intends to purchase it. Hosts of the TBPN podcast, discussing the price, dismissed complaints about the $80 cost. One host referenced comments from a younger employee suggesting that saving $80 is achievable, with another co-host adding that children can earn similar amounts through activities like lemonade stands. Thompson concluded that "gamers are insane" when discussing their reactions to the price, noting his careful approach to the topic.
