In a strategic move just ahead of the anticipated GTA 6 release, Rockstar Games has decided to expand its family by acquiring Sydney-based developer Video Games Deluxe. Known for collaborating on The GTA Trilogy: Definitive Edition, this acquisition paves the way for the birth of Rockstar Australia.
This development also marks the return of Brendan McNamara, the director behind LA Noire, to Rockstar. After leaving the now non-existent LA Noire studio Team Bondi, which he founded, McNamara set up Video Games Deluxe.
Jennifer Kolbe, the head of publishing at Rockstar Games, shared her enthusiasm regarding this acquisition in a statement released via BusinessWire. “Having worked closely over the years, we are thrilled to welcome Video Games Deluxe as Rockstar Australia,” she stated.
Video Games Deluxe has an impressive history with Rockstar, having assisted in the re-release of LA Noire and its VR Case Files, alongside a recent update to the GTA Trilogy: Definitive Edition. This update was essential after the initial version faced criticism over quality issues, with another studio, Grove Street Games, receiving much of the backlash. This led to some tension, evidenced by the remark from GSG’s CEO about Rockstar’s decision to minimize GSG’s role in the game’s development.
With this acquisition, Brendan McNamara, who played a crucial role in the success of LA Noire, is now back under the Rockstar umbrella. Team Bondi, the studio he once led, closed its doors in 2011 amid controversial accusations concerning workplace culture and excessive overtime, which McNamara addressed at the time.
Sharing his thoughts on the transition, McNamara expressed his delight, stating, “It’s been a privilege to work closely with Rockstar Games over the past decade. We are elated to officially join Rockstar Games as Rockstar Australia and continue our pursuit of crafting top-tier games.”
As for GTA 6, it’s yet uncertain whether Rockstar Australia will have a direct hand in its development. However, considering the game’s looming release window set for the fall, it wouldn’t be surprising if they played a part.
Currently, the release date discussions revolve around the console versions of GTA 6, with no official word from Rockstar on when PC gamers can expect their version, despite some brief comments from company executives that stirred excitement before being retracted.
