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Rockstar Games Cancels Midnight Club 5 Amid Franchise's Undervalued Status
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Autos & EVs

Rockstar Games Cancels Midnight Club 5 Amid Franchise's Undervalued Status

WireByte Staff · August 3, 2026

Rockstar Games has canceled the development of Midnight Club 5, a racing game in the Midnight Club franchise, due to its perceived lack of success compared to Grand Theft Auto. Former Rockstar designer Kris Roberts claims the studio prioritized the more lucrative franchise and undervalued the racing series. The decision was made during the game's development phase, with a prototype featuring new locations already created.

Key points

  • Rockstar Games canceled the development of Midnight Club 5, a racing game in the Midnight Club franchise.
  • Former Rockstar designer Kris Roberts claims the studio prioritized Grand Theft Auto over the racing series.
  • The decision was made during the game's development phase, with a prototype featuring new locations already created.
  • Roberts stated that Midnight Club kept players more engaged than competitors like Need for Speed and Burnout, but it wasn't enough.
  • The cancellation is attributed to a 'non-trivial conflict' between Rockstar San Diego and the more central Rockstar New York.

Rockstar Games has canceled the development of Midnight Club 5, a racing game in the Midnight Club franchise. According to former Rockstar designer Kris Roberts, the studio prioritized Grand Theft Auto over the racing series, perceiving it as less successful.

The decision was made during the game's development phase, with a prototype featuring new locations already created. Roberts stated that Midnight Club kept players more engaged than competitors like Need for Speed and Burnout, but it wasn't enough.

The cancellation is attributed to a 'non-trivial conflict' between Rockstar San Diego and the more central Rockstar New York. This conflict highlights the challenges faced by the racing series in receiving the recognition it deserves.

The Midnight Club franchise has a dedicated fan base, and the cancellation of Midnight Club 5 has sparked disappointment among fans. The decision to prioritize Grand Theft Auto over the racing series raises questions about the value placed on different franchises within the gaming industry.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.