Rockstar Games has announced the acquisition of Sydney-based studio Video Games Deluxe, best known for its work on L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files and post-launch updates for Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition. Under the new arrangement, the developer will be rebranded as Rockstar Australia and is expected to contribute to the upcoming Grand Theft Auto 6.
A Familiar History
Video Games Deluxe was founded in 2013 by Brendan McNamara, who previously led Team Bondi, the original studio behind L.A. Noire. Team Bondi garnered a controversial reputation for long hours, high turnover, and reports of harsh management—issues. The allegations eventually prompted an investigation by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA). After Rockstar declined to publish Team Bondi’s next title, the studio went into administration.
McNamara later regrouped with other ex-Team Bondi members at KMM Interactive Entertainment to develop a spiritual successor called Whore Of The Orient. However, following the withdrawal of funding by Warner Bros Interactive Entertainment, both the project and KMM Interactive Entertainment were shut down.
A New Chapter for the Sydney Team
While there has been minimal reporting on the work environment at Video Games Deluxe, the team is widely credited for stabilizing Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition after its troubled launch. With the studio now part of Rockstar’s global network, fans and industry observers anticipate Rockstar Australia will focus on bolstering development efforts for Grand Theft Auto 6—slated for release on consoles later this year, with a PC launch date yet to be confirmed.
“It’s been an honor to work closely with Rockstar Games this past decade,” McNamara said in a statement. “We are thrilled to be a part of Rockstar Games and to continue our efforts to make the best games possible.”
Rockstar’s latest move cements the publisher’s commitment to investing in seasoned teams and harnessing their expertise for new and existing IP. All eyes are now on Rockstar Australia to see how it contributes to one of gaming’s most highly anticipated titles.
