Gaming analyst and mutant superhero Michael Pachter knows that Grand Theft Auto 5 is in development. And he’s predicting that the inevitable follow-up to the venerable franchise will hit at some point in 2010 or possibly 2011. Neat.

“Management declined to state when the game will launch, but has confirmed to us that the game is in development, has been for over a year, and is using the same game ‘engines’ as the last version,” Pachter said.

"Management also told us that the team at Rockstar North is highly motivated to get the game out, and that the team understands that its highest payday will come from working on GTA instead of any other game,” he continued. "When we do the simple math, we conclude that the next installment is likely to be completed by some time in 2010, although given the frequency of game delays, it is not clear that it will necessarily come before October 31, 2010. However, it is clear to us that the next version of GTA will arrive before the end of [Fiscal Year 2011].

This isn’t exactly shocking, but it’s nice to hear a mild confirmation. We’re fans of GTA downloadable content -- especially if "Lost and Damned" is any indication of future quality -- but a fresh and beautiful new retail GTA release is sounding pretty sexy right now. Bring it on Rockstar North. We’re ready.

[via IGN]