Based on Rockstar Games' pattern, the next time we see GTA 5 come back to Game Pass might be when it announces something big.
Grand Theft Auto 5, the second best-selling game of all time, may soon be departing from Xbox Game Pass, as noted by recent notifications received by several subscribers. This potential exit from the Game Pass lineup marks the latest turn in the game's fluctuating presence within Microsoft's subscription service, indicating a recurring pattern in Rockstar Games' strategy regarding its acclaimed title.
The notification received by Game Pass subscribers hints that GTA 5 will be leaving the service on December 31, a little over five months after came back in July. Interestingly, this departure isn't reflected in the Game Pass app's "Leaving soon" section, which typically lists games set to exit the library within two weeks.
Despite the absence of an official announcement from either Rockstar Games or Microsoft, the notifications are fueling speculation about the game's impending removal.
Curiously enough, the timing of GTA 5's arrival and departure from Game Pass coincides with significant events related to Rockstar Games' projects. Previously, its reappearances on Game Pass seemed to align with key promotional periods, such as the release of the next-gen version of the game or the release of the remastered original trilogy, which, by the way, is now available to play on Netflix.
Most recently, its inclusion in the service appeared to leverage the hype surrounding the announcement of Grand Theft Auto 6. These strategic moves suggest that Rockstar Games may be using Game Pass as a tool to bolster interest and capitalize on the excitement generated by its new releases.
If true, then the next time GTA 5 comes back to Game Pass (assuming that it does leave the service on the 31st) might be right around the next time Rockstar confirms anything related to Grand Theft Auto.
In any case, for players who have yet to experience the game or wish to revisit the streets of Los Santos, the current sale offers an opportunity to purchase GTA 5 at a discounted price of $19.99. This sale, running for a limited time, presents an excellent chance for players to own the game permanently, especially considering its impending removal from Game Pass.
The Xbox Series S/X version of GTA 5 includes enhancements such as improved frame rates, higher resolution, and additional current-gen features, making it a compelling purchase for fans of the franchise.
The potential exit of GTA 5 from Game Pass also raises questions about what game might replace it. Speculation has surfaced about other Rockstar titles, such as L.A. Noire, Bully, or the Max Payne trilogy, possibly joining the service. The inclusion of these games could introduce new audiences to some of Rockstar's other acclaimed titles, perhaps ahead of their arrival on GTA+ and/or Netflix.
As the situation develops, players interested in completing GTA 5 should consider starting their playthrough soon. The game's achievements can take between 60 and 80 hours to complete, and with the possibility of it leaving Game Pass at the end of December, time may be limited for those wanting to experience it through the subscription service.
As Rockstar continues to strategize its use of Game Pass in conjunction with major announcements and releases, fans can likely expect more such maneuvers in the future.
