The creators of the controversial Grand Theft Auto 6 parody, Grand Taking Ages, are back in the game, this time securing a spot on Steam after Sony removed it from the PlayStation Store. This management simulator, according to its developers, satirizes the long-awaited release of Rockstar's GTA 6.
Initially launched on the PlayStation Store last month—complete with AI-generated art, improbable gameplay features, and fictitious awards—Grand Taking Ages (previously Grand Taking Ages VI) quickly garnered attention and wishlist additions before Sony intervened. The game's use of AI-generated assets, mimicking GTA's style, likely contributed to its removal.
Following its PlayStation Store expulsion, Grand Taking Ages underwent significant revisions to meet Steam's approval. These changes included a revamped title (dropping the "VI"), a new logo, updated descriptions, and revised visuals, all aiming to clearly distinguish it from Rockstar's title. While still utilizing AI, notably for voiceovers (as disclosed on the Steam page), the revised art style, though still reminiscent of GTA, is less directly imitative.
The Steam page now features a fresh trailer and updated screenshots, reinforcing the parody aspect. The game's description reads: "Coming Soon Since Forever! Start your game dev journey in mom's garage! Battle angry fans, dodge ruthless journalists, and perfect the art of 'creative' deadlines. Survive on pizza and energy drinks while building your dream studio into... a slightly better garage!"
Violarte, the developer, adopted a proactive approach with Valve, engaging them early on to ensure compliance with Steam's guidelines, a strategy differing from their PlayStation Store submission. They cite other projects, such as Grand Theft Hamlet, as examples of successful GTA parodies, highlighting the potential for creative expression within existing genres.
Despite Steam's approval, Violarte aims to return Grand Taking Ages to the PlayStation Store, submitting a request to Sony, emphasizing the changes made and Valve's approval as evidence of the game's revised nature.
The contrasting experiences with Sony and Valve highlight the different approaches to content curation. While Sony's process appears stricter, Steam's more open policy accommodates a broader range of content, including increasing amounts of AI-generated material.
GTA 6, meanwhile, remains on track for a PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S release in Fall 2025.
