I am a PC gamer. I think the humble desktop PC is the best way to enjoy video games if you really, really like video games. I’ve upgraded my computer several times over the years and the cost-average compared to buying a new console every time one is released works out in my favour. I’ve got a Series S accruing dust underneath a houseplant on my desk. I’m not sure if it actually works anymore, because I once watered the plant forgetting it was on top of the Xbox and, well…
I’m never really bothered by any console exclusives as they usually make their way to PC anyway. I don’t mind sitting at my desk with a mouse and keyboard, either. It’s always been a PC for me. 2025 is a bit different though.
The Year Of GTA 6
Grand Theft Auto 6 releases this year.GTA 6 will not be available on PC immediately. That makes me sad. While I think PC will get access to the game faster than ever before (mostly because of the large RP community and sweet cash cow of GTA: Online), it’s still not going to beimmediately.And I must play this game immediately. I’ve never played GTA at release and damn it, I’m not going to miss another seminal moment in gaming history. I might only get a few more GTA releases in my entire life. That means I’m going to drop a huge amount of money on a new console - probably a PS5 - to be able to play it a few months before it comes to PC.
It might be that GTA rejuvenates more people’s desire to buy a console. We’re a few years into this generation now and at no moment have I felt it necessary to purchase either a PS or upgrade my wilting and slightly yellow Series S. Quite a few friends, colleagues, associates, acquaintances, people on the street (not really), have also told me they’re going to upgrade to a PC in the future. But I’m still going to need a console for GTA.
I don’t feel amazing about this because I’m not really sure what other games I’ll play on the console, and I have a feeling this hugely expensive bit of kit will be relegated to nothing more than an elaborate Blu-Ray player. Uh, maybe I’ll play Spider-Man?
Switch 2 vs PS5
But GTA. Remember GTA. By buying a PS5, I’m all out of budget to buy a Nintendo Switch 2.
That’s a bit of a shame. The Switch 2 hasa range of games that appeal to me more than any other Nintendo lineup before it. A FromSoftware exclusive? Open-world Mario Kart? GameCube games? In my head I’m trying to weigh up the pros and cons of all these games versus the PS5 and GTA. In the end, you know what I’m picking - but it’s a harder decision than I thought it’d be. These are the sacrifices you need to make on a limited budget and a world full of games.
It’s also demonstrative of the different direction Nintendo is taking with the Switch 2. They’re positioning the console as a real rival for Triple-A games, and The Duskbloods really seals the deal for a lotta folks. Although the Switch 2 is more costly than any of the previous models, it’s still one of the most affordable consoles on the market, and you probably get a lotta bang for your buck considering its launch lineup.
All I need now is the surprise announcement that GTA will be releasing on Switch 2, and I’d really consider picking one up. I’m sure you’d probably only get an hour of battery life trying to run Rockstar’s multiple-billion-dollar game, but thenit doesn’t seem like the Switch is committing fully to the hand-held route anywaywith its 4K dock capabilities and snazzy new (old) GameCube controller as a separate purchase.
But 2025 is the year of GTA 6. Even if the game is a total flop - which I highly doubt it will be - this year will still always be remembered as the year that GTA released. I’m amazed anyone is even trying to go toe-to-toe with the behemoth, but then I suppose Kirby Air Riders and GTA don’t share a massive audience. That being said, I am that audience. I’m sorry Kirby, I’m gonna hit the streets of Vice City this year.
