Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas Launch

Rockstar Games / 2004

To continue to sustain Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas as a global video game and cultural phenomenon, our goal was to maintain player engagement beyond the initial launch and expand the game’s narrative through strategic content and PR partnerships to drive wider adoption and create conversation.

Challenges

  • Managing post-launch expectations in the months after a blockbuster release

  • Balancing wide-ranging storylines and gameplay in PR messaging

  • Standing out in a saturated media landscape across multiple platforms

Example copy

  • Add quote and intro to each article

  • expectations in the months after a blockbuster release

  • Balancing wide-ranging storylines and gameplay in PR messaging

  • Standing out in a saturated media landscape across multiple platforms

Approach

  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align brand storytelling across platforms

  • Developed detailed PR articles exploring game mechanics, side missions, and character arcs

  • Used narrative content to connect with both hardcore fans and broader media

  • Planned and executed press events to give journalists hands-on gameplay experience

  • Built strategic partnerships and media activations to sustain visibility

  • Ensured all touchpoints reinforced the game’s cultural relevance

Outcomes

  • Best-selling title of the year across multiple platforms

  • Extensive earned media coverage from top gaming and tech outlets

  • Strong brand recall supported by co-promotions with hardware and media partners

  • Cultural recognition as more than a game: GTA: San Andreas became a touchstone for narrative scale and world-building