A Russian modding group known as Revolution Team has released its ambitious 'GTA Vice City Nextgen Edition' mod, despite facing YouTube takedowns from Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games. This mod ports the entire world, cutscenes, and missions of the 2002 classic, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, into the engine of 2008's Grand Theft Auto IV.
In their video description, the modders expressed frustration over the sudden deletion of their YouTube channel by Take-Two, without any prior warning or attempt at communication. They highlighted the significant effort and time invested in the channel, including numerous streams dedicated to the mod's development. The removal of their channel also severed their connection with a large international audience, with a teaser trailer for the mod garnering over 100,000 views and 1,500 comments in just one day.
Despite the emotional toll of the situation, Revolution Team managed to release the mod on the promised date. Originally, the mod was intended to require a legitimate copy of GTA IV as a gesture of respect to the game's publisher. However, due to the uncertainties surrounding the release, they decided to make it a standalone, installation-ready package to ensure stable performance for a broader audience.
The modders emphasized that their project was created by fans for fans, without any commercial benefit. They expressed regret over Take-Two's actions, which they believe hinder modding initiatives that could help maintain interest in iconic games. They hope their project might set a precedent for the modding community.
Take-Two's history of takedowns related to Rockstar games has strained its relationship with modders. The company has previously targeted various mods, including an AI-powered story mode for GTA V and a VR mod for Red Dead Redemption 2. The recent takedown of the Liberty City Preservation Project, which attempted to recreate Vice City within GTA V, is another example.
Interestingly, Take-Two has occasionally hired modders to work at Rockstar Games, and some mods that were initially taken down led to official remasters being announced by Rockstar. A former Rockstar developer, Obbe Vermeij, defended Take-Two's actions, stating that the company is protecting its business interests. He noted that the VC NextGen Edition mod directly competes with the Definitive Edition, and the Liberty City project could interfere with a potential GTA IV remaster.
The key question now is whether Take-Two will attempt to take down the 'GTA Vice City Nextgen Edition' mod itself.
