We speculated that Grand Theft Auto Online would be supported by micro-transactions and now we have confirmation from Rockstar that GTA Online will indeed include micro-transactions for in-game currency called GTA$. While the game will include micro-transactions, it will not be necessary to pay to be successful in the game. Players can still gain in-game currency by completing missions or pulling off heists and knocking over armored cars. Here’s what Rockstar had to say about micro-transactions:
You can either quickly accumulate cash through profitable activities like knocking over armored cars, winning street races, doing stick-ups or a host of other cash-making endeavors – or if you’re the completely instant gratification type, you can choose to buy denominations of GTA$. You will have the option to purchase GTA$ through the in-game Store. The game and its economy have been designed and balanced for the vast majority of players who will not buy extra cash.
The company is confident that its free-to-play model with micro-transactions will not unbalance the game. There’s no paywall which forces users to pay to proceed. Purchased in-game currency from GTA Online won’t be transferable to your single player campaign.
Rockstar also took time to manage user expectations before the launch of the game. The company stated that GTA Online is “going to be something brand new” for the company so expect some bugs and issues during launch. Rockstar urges users to submit any feedback about their experiences to GTAOnline@rockstargames.com and on the GTA Online Forums on their Social Club site.
There is already a ton of additional content being planned for GTA Online including the following:
- The Content Creator: The Content Creator will launch with tools to tailor and publish your own Deathmatches & Races.
- The Beach Bum Pack: Featuring 4 new amazing beach fun vehicles, over 300 new items of incredible down tempo leisure wear and 2 new but not remotely relaxing weapons.
- Capture the Flag: GTA Online’s take on the classic CTF mode including the ability to make your own using The Content Creator.
- Heists: This update will introduce full-on cooperative Heist missions that will require careful planning, teamwork and sharp execution – along with the Heist Planning Board for your apartment.
Rockstar stresses that the updates will be free and that the company will release more information as Grand Theft Auto Online’s release date draws closer.
[Source: Rockstar]
