Rockstar has acquired the developer behind Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition, Video Games Deluxe, and has rebranded it as Rockstar Australia. This studio has a long history of collaboration with Rockstar, contributing to projects such as the 2017 re-releases of L.A. Noire and L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files, as well as recent enhancements to Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition for various platforms including iOS, Android, Netflix, and modern consoles. It's important to note that Video Games Deluxe is distinct from Grove Street Games, which faced criticism for the initial release of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition in 2021. Video Games Deluxe was responsible for the subsequent update that addressed the issues.
Jennifer Kolbe, Head of Publishing at Rockstar Games, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "After working together closely over many years, we are excited to have Video Games Deluxe join the team as Rockstar Australia."
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Video Games Deluxe was founded by Brendan McNamara, who also founded Team Bondi, the developer of L.A. Noire. In 2011, Team Bondi faced allegations of poor working conditions during the development of L.A. Noire, leading to its eventual closure. McNamara has maintained a low profile since then.
Commenting on the acquisition, McNamara said, "It’s been an honor to work closely with Rockstar Games this past decade. We are thrilled to be a part of Rockstar Games and to continue our efforts to make the best games possible."
AnswerSee ResultsThe formation of Rockstar Australia is timely, occurring just before the anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6 in the fall of 2025. In December 2023, a former Rockstar developer attempted to clarify why GTA 6 would first launch on PS5 and Xbox Series X and S before coming to PC, urging PC gamers to be patient and supportive of Rockstar's strategy.
For more information on GTA 6, including comments from Take-Two's Strauss Zelnick regarding the future of GTA Online post-GTA 6 release, keep an eye on our updates.
