Xbox Debut Spurs GTA 3 PS2 Exclusivity

Sony's shrewd move to secure GTA exclusivity for the PS2, spurred by the impending Xbox launch, significantly boosted the console's success. This article delves into the strategic reasoning behind this decision and its lasting impact.

Sony's PS2 Exclusive Deal: A Winning Strategy

The GTA Exclusivity Gamble Paid Off

Chris Deering, former CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, revealed in a GamesIndustry.biz interview that the PS2's GTA exclusivity was a direct response to the original Xbox's debut. Anticipating a potential battle for developer loyalty, Sony proactively secured two-year exclusivity deals with key third-party developers, including Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar Games' parent company. This resulted in the PS2 becoming the sole home for GTA III, Vice City, and San Andreas for a period of time.

Deering acknowledged the risk, stating, "We were worried when we saw Xbox coming," highlighting the competitive landscape of the time. This strategic move proved incredibly successful.

While the earlier top-down GTA titles were hits, Deering admitted initial uncertainty about GTA III's potential due to its shift to a 3D format. However, the gamble paid off handsomely, solidifying the PS2's position as the best-selling console ever. The deal also benefited Take-Two, resulting in reduced royalty payments. This type of platform-exclusive deal, Deering noted, remains a common practice across various industries, including social media today.

Rockstar's 3D Revolution

The transition to 3D in GTA III was a pivotal moment. Rockstar co-founder, Jaime King, explained in a November 2021 GamesIndustry.biz interview that the company simply awaited the right technology to achieve their vision of a more immersive, street-level 3D experience. The PS2 provided that technological leap, launching a new era for the franchise. The three GTA titles on PS2, despite the console's technical limitations, became some of its best-selling games.

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