Grand Theft Auto creators discuss creative focus and the decline of physical media

Former Rockstar Games co-director Dan Houser has stated he does not intend to play Grand Theft Auto 6. Houser, who is currently working on new projects at his company Absurd Ventures, explained that he avoids playing major open-world titles to prevent outside influences from affecting his own creative process. He noted that playing other games often leads him to analyze technical strengths and weaknesses in real-time, which can be a distraction from his own innovation.

Separately, GTA creator Dave Jones expressed regret regarding the potential disappearance of physical video game media. Following announcements that PlayStation may cease disc production for consoles by 2028, Jones remarked on the longevity of pristine 30-year-old game boxes he encountered at a signing event. While Jones admitted he has not purchased physical games in three years, he advocated for consumers to have the choice between digital and physical formats.

Industry leaders, including Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick, noted that over 90% of their business is now distributed digitally, suggesting that the industry is moving decisively away from physical discs.