Rockstar Games, the developer behind the colossal Grand Theft Auto franchise, has reported a significant surge in profit at its UK division, just months before the long-awaited launch of GTA 6.
Financial Surge Ahead of Blockbuster Release
Newly filed accounts with Companies House reveal that Rockstar Games UK achieved a pre-tax profit of £26.9 million for the year ending 31 March 2025. This marks a substantial increase from the £19.4 million profit recorded in the previous financial year. The financial boost comes as the company prepares for the global release of Grand Theft Auto 6, currently slated for November 2026 after several delays.
Interestingly, the company's turnover saw a slight dip, falling from £521.1 million to £508.8 million during the same period. A key factor in the firm's profitability is the UK's video games tax relief scheme. Established in 2014, the initiative has been heavily utilised by Rockstar. The accounts show that the GTA maker has claimed £57.5 million in tax credits to date and has not paid corporation tax since 2008.
Contrasting Fortunes in the UK Gaming Sector
While Rockstar Games thrives, other major UK-based game developers are facing significant headwinds, highlighting a volatile market. In a stark contrast, Sports Interactive, the London studio behind Football Manager, posted a pre-tax loss of £8.5 million for the year to 31 March 2025. This loss quadrupled from the prior year's £2.1 million deficit, a direct result of the controversial decision to cancel Football Manager 25. The studio's turnover was slashed from £72 million to £47.8 million.
The UK division of French gaming giant Ubisoft, headquartered in Guildford, has also issued a warning. The company stated that sales for its current financial year are expected to be lower. It cited a major shift in gamer habits, with players sticking to fewer titles for longer periods, making it harder for new releases to achieve standout success. Ubisoft described the market as "more volatile" and less predictable.
The Road to GTA 6
Rockstar Games, founded in 1998 and headquartered in New York under parent company Take-Two Interactive, is home to legendary series like Red Dead Redemption, Max Payne, and Midnight Club. However, all eyes are on Grand Theft Auto 6, which will be the franchise's first main entry since the phenomenally successful GTA 5 launched in 2013. The upcoming eighth instalment is one of the most anticipated entertainment releases in the world.
The latest financial results from Rockstar Games UK underscore the immense commercial power of its flagship series, even years after its last major release. As the November 2026 launch window approaches, the company's robust financial position, bolstered by government tax relief, places it in a dominant stance while competitors navigate a challenging and changing industry landscape.
