Insider Reveals Rockstar Changes Plans for Remastered Games Post-GTA Trilogy

After a disappointing reception of the GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition, Rockstar Games has reportedly adjusted its strategy concerning the remastering of its classic titles.

On May 2025, insider Tez2 disclosed that Rockstar had plans to re-release GTA 4 for contemporary consoles, followed by a potential port of Max Payne 3, based on a strategy proposed during the pandemic.

Initially, there was speculation surrounding whether this project would involve a full remaster or just a straightforward port, with the former requiring significantly more resources.

Tez later confirmed that a complete remaster of GTA 4 was not in the works, mentioning that the project had commenced development in 2024.

However, he provided an update on May 22, revealing shifts in Rockstar’s plans for remakes, indicating that the studio’s direction had evolved since the discussions in 2020.

According to Tez, the long anticipated GTAIV port appears to be in-development for current-gen consoles per his source. He believes Max Payne 3 will follow after.pic.twitter.com/jpKrpiK1Fo

— ben (@videotechuk_) May 12, 2025

Changes in Remake Strategy Following GTA Trilogy Fallout

In a detailed post on the GTA Forums, Tez clarified that he had not confirmed any Max Payne 3 remake and cautioned that if such a project exists, it would likely be just a port.

“Rockstar/Take-Two had a plan on paper back in 2020 for remasters, including MP3, ” he stated.“However, this plan encountered significant changes after the GTA Trilogy DE release. I really have no information on whether an MP3 port is in development, so it’s wise to assume it’s not.”

The backlash from fans and critics against the 2021 release of GTA Trilogy: The Definitive Edition, which was developed by Grove Street Games, stemmed from various issues such as subpar character models, technical flaws, the absence of music tracks, and many other grievances.

tez2 on max payne 3 remaster plans — Insights from GTA Forums

According to Tez, the fallout from the GTA Trilogy’s reception prompted Rockstar to revise their gaming roadmap.

Previously, the insider had suggested that if a Max Payne 3 port existed, it might coincide with Remedy Entertainment’s upcoming remakes of Max Payne 1 and 2.

As developments unfold, fans are left wondering whether the anticipated GTA 4 port will materialize. Additionally, reports have surfaced that Rockstar intends to enhance Red Dead Redemption 2 for modern consoles and possibly transition it to the upcoming Switch 2.

While excitement builds, it is prudent for fans not to expect a Max Payne 3 remake in the near future. Nevertheless, with Rockstar recently confirming May 26, 2026, as the release date for GTA 6, any new releases leading up to that milestone would certainly be received as bonus content.

Source & Images