In an unexpected twist in the history of video games, it was revealed that Microsoft rejected the opportunity in 2001 to have Grand Theft Auto III (GTA III) as an exclusive title for Xbox. This decision, mentioned in the documentary Power On: The Story of Xbox, is considered one of the most regretted in the company’s history. Rockstar, the creator of the series, approached Microsoft with the project, but the executives, not foreseeing the impact the game would have, chose not to take the risk.
Microsoft has lacked a vision for the future for years
According to Kevin Bachus, who at the time was in charge of Xbox’s relationships with external developers, the transition from 2D to 3D seemed complex. This lack of vision allowed GTA III to become the best-selling game of 2001, accumulating 14.5 million units sold and, surprisingly, surpassing some releases that had been less successful. This was a crucial point that helped Sony seal a deal for the game to be temporarily exclusive to PlayStation 2.
Years later, at E3 2006, Microsoft amended its strategy by announcing that Grand Theft Auto IV would be a timed exclusive release for Xbox 360, a move that reflected a shift in the company’s philosophy regarding high-profile titles. This evolution in Microsoft’s strategy demonstrates how key decisions in the video game industry can radically alter the course of the market, recalling similar situations such as Nintendo’s rejection of Sony in its attempt to create a joint console.
The Grand Theft Auto saga has come a long way, evolving from 2D releases to becoming a resounding success in 3D. However, the future of the console, marked by strategic decisions and shifts in focus, presents an interesting exercise in speculation.What would have happened if GTA VI, which is set to arrive in November, had been exclusive to Xbox? The video game industry is full of alternatives that could have changed the course of history.
