Economics Guides & Articles
Inflation, Game Value & Online Costs. Read our clear, helpful guides and verified store facts.
What You Need to Know About Economics
The $79.99 base price is the new standard for major console releases. But how does that compare to what games used to cost?
When you adjust for regular inflation, GTA 5's $59.99 price in 2013 is equal to about $81.40 today, meaning GTA 6 is actually slightly cheaper in real terms. We also look at what you get per hour of gameplay and what playing online costs over time.
GTA 6 Price vs GTA 5: The Real Inflation Numbers →
Inflation-adjusted price comparison between GTA 5 in 2013 and GTA 6 today.
Read Full Guide ›Important Things to Know
- • Adjusted for inflation, GTA 5's $59.99 launch price in 2013 equals about $81.40 in 2026 money.
- • In real purchasing power, GTA 6 at $79.99 is actually slightly cheaper than GTA 5 was on release day.
- • Playing GTA Online on consoles requires an annual PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass subscription ($79.99/year).
- • GTA+ ($7.99/month) is completely optional, offering bonus game cash, cars, and member discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
On paper yes ($79.99 vs $59.99), but after 13 years of normal inflation, $59.99 in 2013 equals about $81.40 today. That means GTA 6 is actually slightly cheaper in real terms.
For console players, playing online requires a yearly PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core membership ($79.99/year). Combined with the base game ($79.99), that comes to around $160 for your first year.
Articles in This Category (2)
GTA Online Microtransactions: What Playing Online Really Costs
A realistic look at the true cost of GTA Online: PlayStation Plus and Game Pass fees, Shark Cash Cards, and whether GTA+ is worth $7.99 a month.
Is GTA 6 Really More Expensive Than GTA 5?
Comparing GTA 6 at $79.99 to GTA 5 at $59.99 in 2013. How 13 years of inflation make GTA 6 slightly cheaper in real money.