Rockstar Games is known for its controversial and violent video game franchises like Grand Theft Auto and Manhunt. The company achieved early success with the top-down 1997 PC release of GTA which sold over 1 million copies despite provocative marketing and adult content. Rockstar North, the UK office, has developed many popular Rockstar titles including GTA San Andreas, GTA IV, Red Dead Redemption, and Manhunt which was banned in some areas for its graphic violence. Red Dead Redemption in particular was delayed to ensure next generation graphics and gameplay before its release and tremendous critical success.

1. Rockstar games key facts
GTA (for PC) – 1997
- top down
- sold 1m copies
- ground- breaking freedom and adult content
- provocative marketing
Rockstar North (UK office)
- Manhunt
- GTA San Andreas
- Manhunt 2
- GTA IV
- Red Dead Redemption
Manhunt
- banned, massive controversy (very violent)
- implicated in ‘copycat’ attacks
- a garrotte was sent to journalists along with promotion pack –
deliberately courting controversy
Hot Coffee
– GTA IV was hacked, a ‘patch’ was created using a loophole in the
game.
Lots of copies recalled for re-coding.
RAGE (Rockstar Advanced Gaming Engine)
- realistic graphics
Red Dead Redemption
– Production delayed until Rockstar has the technology to ensure
excellent graphics and gameplay
– tremendous critical reception
– movie- style ads shown in cinemas
– ‘Undead Nightmare’ add-on – tapped into vogue for zombies,
accessed more youthful audience