Rockstar Games co-founder and co-creator of the Grand Theft Auto: The wider industry impact

He has said that if retailers desire so, developers should offer them a chance to buy a boxed version of their game. “I don’t know that I care, but if people want that, I think companies should offer it,” he explained. Rockstar Games co-founder and co-creator of the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) franchise, Dan Houser, expressed his thoughts on the ongoing discussion about physical versus digital game release.

Digital Distribution Enhances Game Quality, Says Houser

During an interview at SDCC 2026, Rockstar Games co-founder Dan Houser discussed the impact of digital distribution on game development. He noted that while he does not have a strong preference for physical versus digital releases, he recognizes the advantages of digital formats. Houser stated, ‘I also think that, as critical as people are of digital releases, the ability to update and fix problems in games has been really useful for the quality of games.’ This highlights a significant benefit of digital platforms, allowing developers to enhance game quality post-release through updates.

Physical media debate continues across the gaming industry

PlayStation recently confirmed it will stop producing new physical games from January 2028, while Rockstar has also confirmed that Grand Theft Auto 6 will not ship on a disc when it launches in November. I can download some quick games to my Steam Deck for this 12-hour flight,'” Jones added. The news of PlayStation discontinuing new physical games from January 2028 has created a buzz, and Rockstar’s confirmation of no disc version of GTA 6 has also been a hot topic among players. Houser currently leads Absurd Ventures, the entertainment company he founded and announced in 2023.

Responding to the discussion, Houser said his own preference is less important than giving players a choice. He said, “I don’t know that I care, but if people want that, I think companies should provide it. We made a thing.'” Houser then interjected saying, “I love physical media.

Houser’s comments come as the gaming industry continues to shift towards digital distribution. But I don’t know that I personally care. Lazlow Jones, who worked with Houser at Rockstar before joining him at Absurd Ventures, also shared his perspective on the changing gaming landscape. “We all have that sort of feeling when you get that copy, and you put the disc in the console, but I also have to say I really like being at the airport and going, ‘Oh, cool. He noted, “That’s what’s been interesting. We’ve worked in digital together for a lot of years, and then making a physical product of a comic book is a different creative process but also just really fulfilling to have a physical thing you can say, ‘Look. The conversation comes as there’s broader debate about the future of physical game releases. Houser is not the only game developer to comment on the topic. NieR creator Yoko Taro, Metal Gear Solid creator Hideo Kojima and Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot have also shared their views on the future of physical and digital game distribution. Get the latest technology news and updates. Download the TOI App.