EDIT: Since writing, Rockstar Games has spoken out about the claims. This article has been revised accordingly.
Although the existence of Grand Theft Auto 6 has yet to be officially confirmed by developer Rockstar Games, it’s almost definitely on the cards thanks to the mammoth cash cow that GTA 5 continues to be. Rumours about GTA 6 and its development have been circulating for a long time now, but it seems we might have the first shred of proof that it’s real. Or at least we did, until Rockstar debunked it.
Rockstar North, the British arm of Rockstar Games, had seemingly confirmed that it’s been tasked with creating GTA 6 according to recently-filed tax returns from the company.
As shown by TaxWatch UK [via GamesRadar], over the 2018/2019 period Rockstar North filed for a pretty sizeable increase in its claims for Video Games Tax Relief with the governing body for tax collection in the UK, the HMRC.
Rockstar North’s claims were approved by the HMRC on the grounds that the project the company is working on is “Culturally British.” Being deemed “Culturally British” means that the project meets the requirements of having cultural ties to the UK, and so the developers can seek large subsidies. More on that here.
The Grand Theft Auto series has had pretty strong roots in British game development since the series’ infancy, leading to speculation that this tax-related “clue” could indicate GTA 6 is coming.
However, Red Dead Redemption is also technically classed as a “British” project, so there’s nothing really to suggest that the tax records show the existence of GTA 6.
We’ll just have to keep twiddling our thumbs until Rockstar announces the game, I guess.
EDIT: Since writing, Rockstar Games has spoken out about the claims. A spokesperson told VG247: “The UK’s program to support the growth of a broad range of creative industries through tax relief is a proven success. The program has directly resulted in Rockstar Games significantly increasing its investment in the UK, creating well over 1,000 highly skilled and long term jobs across London, Lincoln, Yorkshire and Scotland. This investment and the success of British video games supported by the program not only significantly contributes to the economy, and to UK tax receipts, but also helps solidify the UK’s position at the forefront of video game development well into the future.”
It’s noted that the company does hold other IPs that are seen as being British, including Red Dead Redemption.
Featured Image Credit: Rockstar Games