Launched in 2004 for the PlayStation 2, GTA San Andreas stands as one of the most impressive technological achievements from Rockstar Games. The game introduced various gameplay features that were significantly advanced for its time, many of which remain unmatched in the subsequent iterations of the series. Recently, former Technical Director at Rockstar North, Obbe Vermeij, shared insights regarding the game’s midnight launch via his official X account.
“Major titles often prompted retailers to open at midnight prior to their official release day, allowing eager customers to pick up their pre-orders. I later learned that publishers actually compensate stores for facilitating these late-night openings.”
Vermeij recounted his visit to the largest retailer near Rockstar North and vividly described the electrifying atmosphere of enthusiastic fans gathered for the midnight release as “mind-blowing.”
“I visited the largest store close to the Rockstar North headquarters, HMV on Princess Street, Edinburgh. Despite the drizzly weather, the queue wove throughout the store and extended onto the street. It was astonishing to see so many people filled with excitement, heading home to immerse themselves in the game all night long.”
Having significantly contributed to the development of the 3D Universe trilogy, which includes Grand Theft Auto 3, Vice City, and San Andreas, Vermeij was also involved in the creation of Grand Theft Auto 4 before departing from Rockstar North in 2009.
Developer of GTA San Andreas Reflects on the Game’s Launch on X
In addition to reminiscing about the midnight launch of GTA San Andreas, Vermeij discussed the process of DVD production and distribution for the game, which took a substantial six weeks.
“The entire process of producing, boxing, and distributing the DVDs took six weeks. At that time, online patches were nonexistent. Our main source of stress was during the cut-off point six weeks before the release. Surprisingly, no significant issues arose.”
He further elaborated on how online patches and digital distribution were not commonplace during that period, mentioning that many developers were on vacation, contemplating the next major project—Grand Theft Auto 4.
Obbe Vermeij has recently been quite active on X, engaging with the Grand Theft Auto community about the development of the 3D Universe titles. In addition to discussing the launch of GTA San Andreas, he has previously addressed topics such as the dynamic weather effects in GTA 3, fitting the game onto a PlayStation 2 DVD, and more.
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