Netflix is bidding farewell to two iconic Grand Theft Auto titles, GTA III and Vice City, as both games are set to leave the platform’s mobile games catalog on December 13, 2024. This departure marks the end of a licensing agreement between Netflix and Rockstar Games, which introduced the trilogy of GTA classics to Netflix Games just last year.
According to a Netflix spokesperson, games on the platform are subject to removal when licensing deals expire, a practice similar to how the service handles its film and series catalog. The platform has added a “Leaving Soon” badge to both GTA III and Vice City, notifying subscribers of their last day to play. The absence of such a notice for GTA: San Andreas suggests that CJ’s journey will remain accessible for Netflix users beyond this deadline.
The GTA titles were part of a significant push by Netflix to expand its gaming portfolio, with the company citing their addition as a key factor in boosting player engagement in late 2023. Some subscribers reportedly joined Netflix specifically to access these games. However, the games’ removal may indicate a shift in Netflix’s gaming strategy, which has seen adjustments recently, including the closure of a game studio working on a high-profile AAA project.
For fans still eager to experience GTA III and Vice City on mobile devices, the Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition will remain available for purchase on iOS and Android app stores. However, these versions come at an additional cost, unlike Netflix’s subscription model that offered the games at no extra charge.
Netflix has been diversifying its games lineup with a mix of retro-inspired titles, indie hits, and unique offerings exclusive to its platform. While losing GTA III and Vice City might seem like a setback, the service still offers a growing catalog of games for subscribers to explore. Games like Poinpy and others continue to cater to a wide range of players, from casual gamers to those seeking more immersive experiences.
The removal of these GTA titles serves as a reminder that streaming games, like movies and series, depend heavily on licensing agreements. As Netflix navigates its evolving gaming strategy, it remains to be seen how the platform will balance securing beloved franchises with developing exclusive titles to keep its gaming audience engaged.
