Sony Removes GTA 6 Parody Game from PS Store; Now Available on Steam

The developers behind the contentious parody game Grand Taking Ages, which previously sparked controversy on the PlayStation Store, have now launched a Steam page for their project following adjustments to meet Valve's standards.

Grand Taking Ages, crafted by developer Violarte, is pitched as a parody management simulator where players take on the role of managing a game development studio. After its initial release on the PlayStation Store was met with skepticism due to its use of AI-generated art and a satirical take on the long-awaited Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6), Sony decided to remove it. However, with significant changes, Violarte has managed to secure a spot on Steam.

Grand Taking Ages is making a comeback, now available on Steam. Violarte confirmed to IGN that the game underwent a comprehensive review process before receiving the green light from Steam. The updated Steam page showcases a new trailer and revised screenshots, emphasizing the game's parody nature while distancing it from the original inspiration, GTA 6.

Key changes include the removal of "VI" from the title, a revamped logo, and altered descriptions and visuals to clearly differentiate Grand Taking Ages from GTA 6. Despite these modifications, the game still employs generative AI, particularly for voice overs, which is disclosed on its Steam page in compliance with Steam's AI policies.

The new description on the Steam page humorously captures the essence of the game:

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 explained that their approach with Steam was more collaborative, engaging with Valve's team early on to ensure the game's concept aligned with their guidelines. They also highlighted other successful parodies like Grand Theft Hamlet to argue for the legitimacy and creative value of parody games.

Grand Taking Ages leverages generative AI for its trailer's voice over. With these updates in place, Violarte is optimistic about reintroducing Grand Taking Ages to the PlayStation Store, having already reached out to Sony to showcase the changes that convinced Valve.

The initial listing of Grand Taking Ages VI on the PlayStation Store raised questions about Sony's vetting process. In contrast, Steam's more open policy has been noted, with the platform hosting a variety of games, including those using generative AI.

Meanwhile, the highly anticipated GTA 6 is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S in the fall of 2025.