After years of leaks and non-stop rumors, it’s refreshing to finally talk about what GTA 6 is actually like. Forget the map speculation, the gameplay itself is way more interesting.
Looking at the extended look, it’s clear this isn't just a prettier version of GTA 5. It feels like Rockstar is taking the best ideas from Red Dead Redemption 2 and making the world feel way more alive. The graphics look amazing, sure, but that’s honestly the least interesting part.
The thing that really stood out to me is how basic actions are getting a lot more depth. No better place to see that than in the game's namesake: stealing cars.
GTA 6 Vehicle Theft System Adds More Depth and Player Choice
In the past, stealing a car was easy. Walk up, press a button, and you're off. GTA 6 is clearly trying to change that and make you actually think about your choices.
Rob Nelson, Head of Development and Co-Studio Head, explained the reasoning behind the change:
“We have put some layers of stratification into the vehicles, previously, you could just press triangle to automatically hotwire and steal any vehicle that you wanted and take off.
We felt like that left a lot of potential gameplay on the table, in terms of progression and decision-making for players. I think it gives all the vehicles more meaning, and you need to pay attention to what you're doing a bit more.”
You can see this approach in the actual gameplay. How you get into a car varies, you might smash a window or use a slim jim, while high-end cars require more work, like cloning a keyless entry device.
This change could really shake up how the game feels. Imagine you're on the run from the cops and see a flashy sports car, but you realize that stealing it will take too long, so you're forced to grab an older, easier car instead.
GTA 6’s New Wanted System Could Completely Change Police Chases
While with the car stealing mechanic getting an upgrade we might build a tendency to pull Andy Jankowiak’s infamous "I'm just gonna put my foot on the floor and I'm not lifting until I see God or the checkered flag.” with an “AE86” singing Deja Vu.
But the wanted system appears to follow the same philosophy.
During one chase, Jason and Lucia enter a parking lot, destroy the vehicle police have identified, switch to a van, and seemingly disappear from police attention. The HUD appears to track pieces of information authorities know about the characters, including their vehicles, appearance, clothing, number of suspects, and potentially CCTV identification.
If this works dynamically, GTA 6’s police could feel less like enemies magically spawning because the game says you have three stars and more like an actual search force trying to identify two suspects.
GTA 6 Gameplay Shows Red Dead Redemption 2 Influence
Red Dead Redemption 2’s DNA is all over GTA 6.
The interaction system seems to mirror the L2 mechanic from the frontier, allowing Jason to engage with characters and wildlife alike. In one sequence, we see him approach a dog with the ability to pet, scold, or even "study" the animal.
Even the domestic side of life has more texture; the apartment Jason and Lucia share features functional lights, TV, and consumables. Grabbing a snack isn't just for show, food replenishes health, and other items likely provide unique stat boosts.
It's all about making the world feel like a place you actually inhabit, rather than just a backdrop for the next mission.
Jason and Lucia Feel like an Actual Duo
Rockstar is clearly moving beyond the standard character-swapping formula, aiming to make Jason and Lucia feel like a living, breathing duo rather than just two separate avatars. Small touches like Jason holding doors open (the bare minimum, really) or the pair holding hands add a layer of authenticity to their bond.
You can even take Lucia on dates, a mechanic that might deepens their relationship based on your decisions. Ultimately, the trajectory of their connection rests in the player's hands, letting you see exactly where those choices lead.
Gameplay also hints at cooperation during combat. In one sequence, Jason asks for cover fire and Lucia immediately engages the enemies. Whether that is scripted or represents an actual command mechanic remains unclear.
Character switching also returns and appears possible both when Jason and Lucia are close together and when they are separated.
GTA 6 Gunplay Takes Inspiration From Max Payne 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2
Cover shooting is back, but it feels more precise. The slow-motion aiming lets you pick your shots, so you can target an enemy's head, knee, or even shoot the gun right out of their hand to disarm them. The hit markers are helpful too, you'll see red when you've taken someone down and yellow if you've just wounded them.
It really feels like Rockstar is blending some of that tight, satisfying shooting from Max Payne 3 into the GTA world. Even fistfights feel weightier, and the vehicle combat is way more detailed, with damage showing on tires, windshields, and engines.
When things get quiet, you definitely won't be bored. Whether you’re into basketball, scuba diving, working out, or backyard wrestling, there’s always something to do. You can even try your hand at street racing with nitrous or just doomscroll through the game's own social media feed. It’s clear the game is packed with plenty of fun side activities.
GTA 6’s Vice City Looks Bigger, Denser, and More Alive Than GTA 5
Maybe Rockstar’s biggest win here is just how alive the world feels with all these systems running at once.
The streets are packed. You’ve got traffic, pedestrians hanging out on beaches, folks waiting for the bus, and construction sites popping up all over the place. Everything inside, from the buildings to the rooms, is packed with detail. Even from way up high, the city looks massive and goes on forever.
And all the footage was reportedly captured on a base Playstation 5 rather than a PS5 Pro.
Of course, we still have some questions. It’s hard to tell how deep these systems go or if these moments are fully player-controlled or just for the trailer. But it’s still impressive. Rockstar isn’t just adding new features; they’re adding real weight to choices that used to be trivial.
One thing is certain: GTA 6 is going to be much more than just another sequel.
Source: GTA 6 Netflix Extended Look