It’s hard to believe, but it’s been over a decade since the release of the last Grand Theft Auto game. While millions of players are still immersing themselves in GTA Online, anticipation for GTA 6 is reaching fever pitch. Set to be one of the most influential releases in gaming history, the much-anticipated game from Rockstar Games is expected to redefine the open-world genre once again. As we inch closer to the release, here’s everything we know so far about GTA 6.
GTA 6 Release Date
After years of speculation, GTA 6 is expected to launch in fall 2025. This was confirmed by Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, during a May 2024 earnings call. Zelnick stated that the launch window was narrowed down, and the company remains confident about the fall 2025 release.
Despite the uncertainty that often comes with game development, particularly with large-scale projects like GTA, Zelnick emphasized that Rockstar is committed to delivering an exceptional gaming experience. In a November 2024 interview, Zelnick reiterated that while delays are always a possibility, the team is confident that the GTA 6 release date will be met.
GTA 6 Trailer
We’ve finally gotten a glimpse of GTA 6, thanks to the release of its trailer on December 5, 2023. The trailer was originally scheduled for this date, but it leaked a day earlier. The cinematic trailer introduces players to the protagonists of the game: Lucia, a character with a criminal background, and her unnamed male counterpart, who seems to be both her partner in crime and possibly in romance.
As expected, the trailer showcases a return to the iconic Vice City, but this time, it’s set in the modern day, offering a more vibrant and diverse urban setting. The trailer highlights a mix of environments—from bustling city streets to serene beaches and dense swamps—suggesting a vast open world packed with different terrains and activities.
GTA 6 Platforms
GTA 6 will be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S at launch. While it’s highly unlikely that the game will release on last-generation consoles like the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One, the absence of a PC release at launch is notable. However, given that GTA 5 took two years to reach PC, it’s plausible that GTA 6 will follow a similar timeline for its PC debut, though a simultaneous launch would be ideal for fans.
As for Nintendo’s consoles, it’s unclear whether GTA 6 will appear on the next-generation Switch. With the current trends in hardware performance, it seems less likely that the game will launch on this platform.
GTA 6 Gameplay
Though the GTA 6 trailer didn’t showcase gameplay, it provided enough visual clues to speculate on the mechanics. It’s safe to assume that GTA 6 will offer plenty of action, including high-speed chases, shootouts, robberies, and car thefts—all staples of the series. In terms of gameplay mechanics, we can expect Rockstar to expand upon its tried-and-tested formula of shooting, driving, and criminal activities.
The game is expected to feature a first- and third-person perspective, much like GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2. The trailer suggests a more dynamic world with densely populated streets and NPCs that appear to be fully interactive, making the city feel alive. Players can likely look forward to an abundance of side activities, mini-games, and other distractions that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.
Will GTA 6 Have GTA Online?
One of the standout features of GTA 5 was the introduction of GTA Online, which transformed the game into a continuous service that remains popular nearly a decade after its initial release. With GTA 6, we can expect some form of multiplayer, although details remain scarce.
Insiders suggest that GTA 6 will feature GTA Online in some capacity, but there might be notable changes. For example, dedicated servers may not be included in the game’s initial release, as Rockstar has reportedly deemed them cost-prohibitive. It’s also uncertain whether the GTA Online component will launch alongside the base game or follow a staggered release, similar to Red Dead Online.
Given the massive success of GTA Online, it seems inevitable that Rockstar will integrate a robust online mode, whether as a direct continuation or a new experience entirely.
Preordering GTA 6
As of now, preorders for GTA 6 are not yet available. With the game slated for release in fall 2025, it’s likely that preorder details will become available closer to the confirmed release date. Historically, Rockstar has announced preorders a few months before launch, so fans should stay tuned for updates.
Conclusion
GTA 6 is shaping up to be one of the biggest gaming releases of all time. With a return to Vice City, new protagonists, an expansive open world, and a likely continuation of GTA Online, it’s clear that Rockstar is preparing to deliver another groundbreaking experience. While the fall 2025 release date is still a ways off, the anticipation surrounding GTA 6 is palpable. Stay tuned for more updates as Rockstar reveals more about the game in the lead-up to its highly anticipated launch.