GTA Online Update Locks Helpful Features Behind Paid Subscription Service

Grand Theft Auto Online's latest update sparks controversy by making remote business income collection exclusive to GTA+ subscribers. The recent Bottom Dollar Bounties DLC, released June 25th, introduced a new bounty hunting business, missions, vehicles, and a significant change to passive income management.

Since GTA 5's 2013 release, Rockstar Games has consistently updated GTA Online with new purchasable businesses (nightclubs, arcades, etc.). These businesses generate passive income, traditionally collected individually at each location – a tedious process.

The Bottom Dollar Bounties update simplifies this, allowing GTA+ subscribers to collect all passive income remotely via the Vinewood Club app. Non-subscribers, however, are locked out of this convenient quality-of-life improvement.

This move contradicts Rockstar's earlier assurances that gameplay features wouldn't be exclusive to GTA+ subscribers. Negative player sentiment, fueled by a recent price increase and this latest restriction, is growing. Concerns are rising that Rockstar may continue this practice in future updates to bolster GTA+'s appeal.

This situation also raises concerns about the future of GTA 6's online component, slated for a Fall 2025 release. Rockstar hasn't detailed GTA 6's online features, but the current trajectory of GTA Online suggests GTA+ may play a larger role, potentially facing significant player backlash. The long-term success of GTA+ remains uncertain.