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. Last month, despite employing seemingly AI-generated art and listing improbable gameplay features alongside fake awards, Grand Taking Ages VI surprisingly appeared on the PlayStation Store with a May 2025 release date, even allowing users to add it to their wishlists.
However, Sony swiftly removed Grand Taking Ages VI from its store. Now, following key adjustments, the game has resurfaced on Steam, having successfully navigated Valve's review process. Developer Violarte told IGN that the game underwent a thorough review, resulting in approval for Steam publication. The Steam page boasts a new trailer and updated screenshots, all reinforcing the parody angle used to justify the project.
The changes implemented include dropping the "VI" from the title and revising the logo, descriptions, and overall presentation to clearly distinguish Grand Taking Ages from its inspiration. While the new art still bears a resemblance to Rockstar's iconic GTA style, it's a less direct imitation. Despite these changes, the game still utilizes generative AI. In accordance with Steam's AI guidelines, Violarte disclosed on the Steam page the use of "AI services" for voiceovers, a decision whose effectiveness is readily apparent 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 compared to Sony. They engaged with Valve's team about the game's concept before submitting it officially, proactively ensuring alignment with their guidelines. They cite projects like Grand Theft Hamlet, a documentary about actors staging Hamlet within GTA Online, as precedent for protecting GTA parodies from takedowns, arguing that parody can creatively and engagingly celebrate and entertain within existing genres.
Violarte now aims to reinstate Grand Taking Ages on the PlayStation Store, submitting a request to Sony highlighting the Valve approval achieved after implementing changes. They express confidence that Sony will approve the game this time.
The PlayStation Store incident raised questions about Sony's curation process, contrasting with Steam's more open approach. Platforms like Steam, app stores, and even the Nintendo eShop are known for their varied content, increasingly incorporating generative AI. Meanwhile, GTA 6 is slated for release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in Fall 2025.
