Rockstar Games is shaking things up ahead of GTA 6’s release, acquiring a Sydney-based developer, Video Games Deluxe, and rebranding it as Rockstar Australia. For those familiar with Rockstar’s collaborations, this move might ring a bell as Video Games Deluxe worked on The GTA Trilogy: Definitive Edition.
This acquisition marks the return of Brendan McNamara to Rockstar’s ranks. McNamara, known for directing LA Noire, originally founded Video Games Deluxe after his departure from Team Bondi, the studio behind LA Noire, which eventually shut down.
In a statement released through BusinessWire, Rockstar Games’ head of publishing, Jennifer Kolbe, couldn’t contain her excitement about the merger. “After working together closely over many years, we are excited to have Video Games Deluxe join the team as Rockstar Australia,” she remarked, highlighting the synergy that has developed between the two teams.
Video Games Deluxe has been a valuable partner for Rockstar, contributing to the re-release of LA Noire and its VR Case Files, and more recently, stepping in to improve the GTA Trilogy: Definitive Edition following its initial release, which didn’t quite meet players’ expectations. The update helped to smooth over some of the rocky initial reviews, with Grove Street Games, the original developers of the trilogy, absorbing much of the criticism. Their CEO even commented on Rockstar’s decision to minimize references to Grove Street Games as a somewhat underhanded move.
The re-entry of Brendan McNamara into the Rockstar family is particularly notable. Team Bondi, McNamara’s previous endeavor, closed down in 2011 amidst allegations of unhealthy working conditions and an intense crunch culture. McNamara addressed those concerns at the time but seems ready to embark on this new chapter with Rockstar.
Expressing his enthusiasm, 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.”
While it’s yet unclear whether Rockstar Australia will play a role in the development of GTA 6, their involvement seems plausible, especially with the game’s anticipated Fall release. Players are eagerly waiting, though Rockstar remains tight-lipped about a PC release. Recent comments hinted at it, but they were quickly retracted, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
