Why Bully 2 Never Happened: Rockstar Was Just Too Busy, Says Co-Founder
The absence of Bully 2 has long puzzled fans—but according to Rockstar co-founder Dan Houser, it wasn’t due to creative obstacles or internal conflict. He claims the studio simply didn’t have the bandwidth given its workload at the time.
Houser recalls that after Bully released in 2006, Rockstar was juggling massive projects like GTA IV, Red Dead Redemption, and other major titles. In his view, they were stretched thin and had to prioritize.
“I think it was just bandwidth issues. If you’ve got a small lead creative team and a small leadership crew, you just can’t do all the projects you want.”
He also pointed out that Rockstar in 2006 wasn’t as large as it is today. The studio has grown considerably since then—thanks in part to the success of GTA V—which makes future attempts more feasible.
Other franchises from Rockstar—like Manhunt and Midnight Club—have also remained dormant, further supporting the idea that some IPs were left behind by necessity, not neglect.
But hope persists among fans: many believe after the next GTA project and as Rockstar’s resources increase, Bully 2 could still be revived. Houser’s explanation frames its absence as a consequence of timing, not a closed door.
Houser recalls that after Bully released in 2006, Rockstar was juggling massive projects like GTA IV, Red Dead Redemption, and other major titles. In his view, they were stretched thin and had to prioritize.
“I think it was just bandwidth issues. If you’ve got a small lead creative team and a small leadership crew, you just can’t do all the projects you want.”
He also pointed out that Rockstar in 2006 wasn’t as large as it is today. The studio has grown considerably since then—thanks in part to the success of GTA V—which makes future attempts more feasible.
Other franchises from Rockstar—like Manhunt and Midnight Club—have also remained dormant, further supporting the idea that some IPs were left behind by necessity, not neglect.
But hope persists among fans: many believe after the next GTA project and as Rockstar’s resources increase, Bully 2 could still be revived. Houser’s explanation frames its absence as a consequence of timing, not a closed door.
