Rockstar Acquires Video Games Deluxe, Rebrands as Rockstar Australia
Rockstar Games has acquired Video Games Deluxe, the developer behind the enhanced versions of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition, renaming it Rockstar Australia. Video Games Deluxe boasts a history of collaboration with Rockstar, contributing to the 2017 re-releases of L.A. Noire and its VR counterpart, and more recently, overseeing crucial upgrades for the GTA Trilogy on iOS, Android, Netflix, and current-gen consoles.
This acquisition distinguishes itself from the controversial involvement of Grove Street Games, whose initial work on the GTA Trilogy faced significant criticism in 2021. Video Games Deluxe, however, developed the subsequent update that addressed many of the original game's issues, a fact highlighted by Grove Street Games' former boss's public statement regarding their removal from the updated game's credits.
"After a long and successful partnership, we're thrilled to welcome Video Games Deluxe to the Rockstar family as Rockstar Australia," stated Jennifer Kolbe, Rockstar Games Head of Publishing.
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Video Games Deluxe's founding by Brendan McNamara, the founder of Team Bondi (creators of L.A. Noire), adds another layer to this announcement. Following allegations of poor working conditions at Team Bondi during the development of L.A. Noire in 2011, McNamara maintained a relatively low profile until now.
"It's been an honor collaborating with Rockstar Games over the past decade," McNamara commented. "We're excited to officially join the team and continue creating exceptional gaming experiences."
AnswerSee ResultsThe formation of Rockstar Australia precedes the anticipated Fall 2025 release of Grand Theft Auto 6. Recent discussions have addressed the game's staggered release across platforms, with a former Rockstar developer offering insight and urging patience from PC gamers. Further updates regarding GTA 6 and the future of GTA Online are anticipated.
