By Sagar V. Mankar Netflix is set to remove two fan-favorite Grand Theft Auto (GTA) games from its mobile gaming collection, just a year after their much-anticipated debut. The games, Grand Theft Auto III and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City – Definitive Editions, will no longer be available on the platform after December 13, 2024. These titles were part of the exclusive GTA Trilogy deal Netflix secured in November 2022, with the games officially launched on December 14, 2023.
Developed by Video Games Deluxe, these mobile versions brought the iconic worlds of Liberty City and Vice City to portable screens. They expanded on the 2021 console remasters created by Grove Street Games. Despite being among the most downloaded titles in Netflix’s gaming library, removal notices have already appeared in the Netflix app. The same notifications are visible in Google Play and iOS App Store descriptions, though they do not show up when launching the games directly outside the Netflix app.
Reports suggest that the titles may transition to paid versions as part of the Trilogy Definitive Collection in mobile app stores. However, fans of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – Definitive Edition can breathe a sigh of relief. This game, the trilogy’s most downloaded title on Netflix, currently shows no signs of removal.
Interestingly, this decision aligns with major updates to the GTA Trilogy on other platforms. These updates introduced enhancements like improved lighting, a feature originally showcased in Netflix’s mobile versions. Throughout 2024, the mobile ports received consistent updates, including a November 12th patch focused on bug fixes and performance improvements, ensuring a better experience for Netflix subscribers.
The removal of these games marks a significant shift for Netflix Games, as it is the first instance of titles being withdrawn due to licensing agreements. A Netflix representative explained, “Just like with series and films, games will be removed from Netflix as licenses expire. Players will see a ‘Leaving Soon’ badge and receive notifications in advance.”
This development could signal the start of a rotating gaming catalog on Netflix, similar to models seen on platforms like PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass. For fans, the announcement raises questions about Netflix’s long-term gaming strategy and whether more titles will follow this pattern.
With the clock ticking, subscribers have until December 13, 2024, to enjoy these classic GTA games through Netflix.