Despite being released over seven years ago, the latest installment of Rockstar Games’ popular open-world franchise, Grand Theft Auto, has managed to sell 140 million copies. The incredible achievement was revealed by Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick yesterday, who touched upon the series’ tremendous popularity and ongoing success during his company’s Q3 2021 earnings call.
“In the history of the entertainment industry, there’s perhaps no experience that’s more loved, more expansive, more critically acclaimed and more successful than Rockstar Games Grand Theft Auto,” Zelnick boasted in a transcript published on Seeking Alpha. “Grand Theft Auto V remains one of the most iconic titles ever released and continues to exceed our expectations, having sold in over 140 million units.”
“In fact, in calendar 2020, more copies of Grand Theft Auto V were sold than in any other year except for 2013 when it first launched on PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. In addition, recurrent consumer spending on Grand Theft Auto Online outperformed our third quarter forecast and grew 28% year-over-year.”
The popularity of Grand Theft Auto V has primarily been fueled by its noted multiplayer component, GTA Online, which continues to lure players back to San Andreas with new updates that typically comprise new challenges, weapons, vehicles, and more. Rockstar Games’ latest addition, The Cayo Perico Heist, happens to be GTA Online’s biggest update ever.
“The Cayo Perico Heist is the largest and most ambitious Grand Theft Auto Online adventure to date,” a game description reads. “Playable from start to finish either as a lone operator or with up to three other players, discover dozens of ways to infiltrate and heist a brand-new location for the ultimate score. Your journey begins with an introduction to a new contact found at the Los Santos nightlife scene’s latest attraction…”