What's in the value of a monthly subscription? Is this case, a heck of a lot.
Rockstar Games recently released an enticing offer for GTA+ subscribers. This offer follows its previous gesture of giving away the GTA Remastered trilogy at no extra charge. Now, the deal is much sweeter with two more iconic additions: Liberty City Stories and Chinatown Wars.
Taking a step back to reminisce, both Liberty City Stories and Chinatown Wars weren't just ordinary releases. In 2005, an unlikely spin-off in Liberty City Stories debuted on PlayStation Portable, offering players a portable foray into the dark and gripping underworld of Liberty City, which mirrored the vibe of New York City.
By 2009, another marvel graced the scene: Chinatown Wars. Launched as a Nintendo DS exclusive, it brought a refreshing twist to the usual GTA formula, incorporating features tailored to suit the handheld gaming audience.
Now, Rockstar has re-released these nostalgic titles for iOS and Android, offering a 30-minute free trial. Afterwards, the interested players can buy the full game. But here's where the magic happens for GTA+ subscribers. They can play the entire game for free by logging in with their Rockstar Games Social Club account linked to their console with an active GTA+ Membership.
Considering the pricing structure, the deal becomes even more compelling. The GTA+ subscription is priced at a modest $5.99 per month, serving as an affordable passport not only to these two renowned games but also to its smorgasbord of exclusive perks.
Case in point, Until November 8, subscribers can redeem a handful of exclusive rewards in GTA Online, such as the new Albany Brigham at The Vinewood Car Club and Double Rewards in Halloween Deathmatches. Additionally, a generous bonus of $500,000 is credited directly to their in-game Maze Bank account.
Taking into account all these benefits, you can't help but acknowledge the immense value a single month's subscription can bring, particularly for those eager to experience Liberty City Stories and Chinatown Wars.
Though Rockstar is charting a seemingly innovative course, they aren't the pioneers in this domain. Other major players, such as Ubisoft and EA, have already initiated similar offerings. The responses have been diverse, with some praising it as an evolution while others criticize it as an overtly commercial move. However, Rockstar's legacy of delivering top-tier games suggests that their take on this divisive offering might help normalize and, perhaps, even redefine such subscription-based models.
With Grand Theft Auto 6 on the horizon and an industry that's moving faster than ever, Rockstar is possibly using GTA+ as its Guinea pig, testing the effectiveness and reception of certain decisions for potential incorporation going forward.
Rockstar's illustrious history in the gaming world speaks for itself, earning the studio the respect and trust of countless fans. Liberty City Stories and Chinatown Wars are a throwback to a time when Rockstar was more brazen, unafraid to explore beyond even its own extended boundaries.
Only time will reveal the ripple effects of Rockstar's latest move. But for the moment, GTA+ subscribers are undoubtedly in for a treat, as they relive the magic of two legendary GTA titles, all without any additional financial commitment.
