Rockstar Games, the powerhouse behind iconic titles like Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption, has discreetly rebranded its online membership system, bidding farewell to the familiar “Social Club” moniker. The unexpected move comes just ahead of the much-anticipated unveiling of Grand Theft Auto 6.
The Clues on Social Media
More evidence of Rockstar sunsetting the Social Club brand name to a Rockstar Games branded name. I’m surprised nobody caught this change a month back in the new GTA+ mobile games. pic.twitter.com/0xUXIjYXAZ
— Ben (@videotechuk_) November 22, 2023
As disclosed by PC Gamer and brought to light by the vigilant eyes of the @videotechuk_, the transformation is evident through a series of before-and-after snapshots shared on Twitter. The once-familiar references to “Social Club members” have seamlessly morphed into “Rockstar Games members” across the online platform.
It may appear Rockstar Games are gearing up to sunset the Social Club and launch a new platform. Today the new changes to the Rockstar Games websites brought a new change to the naming scheme of the Social Club to the 'Rockstar Games Platform''. pic.twitter.com/XYVhd1xXtc
— Ben (@videotechuk_) November 20, 2023
The Twitter post and website visuals showcase subtle yet significant alterations. Phrases like “You don’t have any Social Club friends” now read as “You don’t have any Rockstar Games friends,” reflecting the meticulous rebranding effort.
The Silence from Rockstar
Intriguingly, Rockstar Games has maintained a silence on this rebranding initiative, refraining from any official announcements. While traces of the Social Club branding persist on the website, there seems to be no tangible impact on the features of the Social Club itself. Players engrossed in Rockstar classics like Grand Theft Auto 5 or Red Dead Redemption 2 can rest assured that their gaming experiences remain unaffected.
Speculation arises that this rebranding could be a strategic manoeuvre as Rockstar Games stands on the brink of a new era. The unveiling of the GTA 6 trailer, slated for December, marks a pivotal moment for the gaming community. Although Rockstar has yet to confirm the release date for GTA 6, enthusiasts anticipate its arrival as early as 2024. This release will mark the first major launch since 2018 and will also be tailored for the latest gaming consoles, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S.
The forthcoming GTA 6 is anticipated to set a record as the most expensive video game in history, with a projected budget ranging from $1 to $2 billion. Although the developers have not yet revealed specific details about the upcoming GTA title, rumours have been circulating regarding aspects such as the price, gameplay, and more.
Based on leaked information, there are indications that Vice City is being considered as the backdrop for GTA 6. In March 2023, a purported map of the sequel emerged on the internet, revealing various locations reminiscent of those found in the 2002 release of GTA Vice City. Additionally, there are speculations that the upcoming game’s map could be twice as extensive as the playable area in GTA 5.
