Rockstar Games' GTA 6 budget may top $2 billion

Industry analysts estimate that Rockstar Games' upcoming title Grand Theft Auto VI could have a total development and marketing budget of around $1 billion to $2 billion, potentially making it the most expensive video game ever produced. The figure would surpass the roughly $1.5 billion cost of constructing Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. Rockstar has not confirmed any official number; the estimates are based on market analysis, insider reports and the game's decade‑long development involving thousands of staff.

The game is scheduled for release on 19 November 2026, with a standard edition priced at $79.99 and an ultimate edition at $99.99 in the United States. In the United Arab Emirates, pre‑order prices are set at about Dhs 294 for the standard edition and Dhs 367 for the ultimate edition, with pre‑loads beginning 12 November. Analysts expect the massive budget to be recouped quickly, citing the franchise’s historic sales performance – GTA V generated $1 billion in sales within three days of launch in 2013. Pre‑orders are already live, and the game is positioned to break new revenue records in the entertainment sector.