Sony Clears GTA 6 Parody for Steam Release

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, Grand Taking Ages VI (as it was then known) appeared on the PlayStation Store, complete with a May 2025 release date and AI-generated art. However, Sony swiftly pulled the game. Now, following significant revisions, it's been approved for release on Steam.

Developer Violarte stated that Grand Taking Ages underwent a rigorous review process to meet Steam's standards. The Steam page features a new trailer and updated screenshots, further emphasizing the parody aspect. Key changes include removing the "VI" from the title, redesigning the logo, and revising descriptions to clearly distinguish it from GTA 6. While the art still bears a resemblance to Rockstar's style, it's been altered.

Despite the changes, generative AI remains a core component. In accordance with Steam's AI guidelines, Violarte disclosed the use of AI for voiceovers, as evident in the trailer.

The updated Steam page 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 adopted a different strategy with Valve, proactively engaging with their team to ensure alignment with their guidelines before submission. They cited similar parody projects, such as Grand Theft Hamlet, as precedent for protecting parody works from takedowns.

Violarte aims to reinstate Grand Taking Ages on the PlayStation Store, citing the Steam approval as evidence of the game's revised compliance. They've submitted a request to Sony, highlighting the implemented changes.

The incident raised questions about Sony's curation process, contrasting with Steam's more open approach. Steam, along with other app stores, often hosts a wider range of content, increasingly incorporating generative AI.

GTA 6 is slated for release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in Fall 2025.