‘GTA 5’ sales pass $800m on first day

One of the most eagerly anticipated video game releases has exceeded worldwide sales of $800m (€591m).

Grand Theft Auto V delivered the highest first-day retail sales of any title sold by Take-Two Interactive Software, parent company of the game’s developer, Rockstar.

Stores worldwide opened their doors at midnight on Tuesday for the special launch of the widely acclaimed game, which reportedly cost over €260m to make and market — more than films such as Avatar. Online retailer Amazon sold out of the game on pre-orders alone.

Experts estimate it could generate €1.5bn during its first year on sale, with gamers predicted to snap up some 25m copies, breaking current records.

Strauss Zelnick, Take-Two chairman and CEO, said: “All of us are thrilled with the initial response to Grand Theft Auto V.

“Once again, the team at Rockstar Games have outdone themselves, setting the entertainment industry’s new standard for creativity, innovation and excellence.”

The Grand Theft Auto series has accumulated sales of 135m copies since its 1997 debut. GTA IV reportedly sold over 25m copies since its 2008 release.