It's undeniable there is extraordinary anticipation for Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto 6, but to really put that anticipation into perspective, economists have provided some new numbers.
During the November 19 launch week for Grand Theft Auto 6, the U.S. economy is expected to lose over $1 billion in productivity, as economists estimate the launch day will also be a coordinated sick day many people plan to take. Some fans are seeing November 19, and even the following five days, as public holidays. For example, Bud Burruss, a software engineer, told The Wall Street Journal he intends to take five working days off following the launch, while Anna Ray, a medical-sales representative and pro wrestler, said she will be taking from Thursday to Thursday off.
On a broader scale, economists have estimated the US economy will experience approximately a 2% short-term drop in productivity, equating to that estimated $1 billion figure. Reports indicate that young men aged 18 to 30 are most likely to take time off to play Grand Theft Auto 6, with the technology sector expected to feel the biggest hit. The anticipated, though relatively short-term, productivity hit to the U.S. economy from the release of GTA 6 further highlights how much of a cultural phenomenon this piece of media is.
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With GTA 6 shaping up as the most anticipated entertainment release in history, the productivity loss is just one side effect of its cultural gravity, as another side has taken offense at the 30FPS performance target and some graphical issues. However, can you name a time when every single person was happy at once?
