The CEO of Grove Avenue Video Games, the studio behind The GTA Trilogy’s Definitive Edition, responded indirectly on Twitter to Rockstar’s recent update removing references to the studio from the three remastered games.
After addressing numerous issues and incorporating subtle lighting adjustments praised by one of our frequent contributors, players have noticed that certain references to Grove Avenue Games are surprisingly missing. References removed from the initial boot-up sequences of the remastered versions of Grand Theft Auto 3, San Andreas, and Vice City, as well as copyright credits.
Thomas Williamson, GSG CEO, responded to the ensuing online discussion by posting: “Hypothetically, I’d argue it’s unfair to strip main builders of credit when an update contains numerous fixes they’ve long advocated for, only to have them remain inaccessible to players for years.”
While the Trilogy replacement hasn’t entirely removed Grove Avenue Games from the credits of the game, as GTANet notes, it’s understandable that a developer might feel disheartened by even minimal mentions of their studio in a project they contributed to and faced significant criticism for the launch state of, after being entrusted with the challenge by Rockstar.
Williamson’s tweet could grab attention if the second half implies that fixes for the sport were delayed or held back, allegedly being reconsidered in some form. While it’s unusual for such an anomaly to occur in any game, given the variables involved, the developer failed to provide further insight into the matter.
While it’s uncertain whether the rest will fall into place, the conclusion feels abrupt after an already unconventional rollout for three iconic game remasters that would require little effort to persuade even casual GTA fans to give them another go.
