Rockstar Games has provided an extended look at the much-anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI, showcasing a 26-minute preview that highlights significant gameplay elements and visual enhancements. The game continues the franchise’s hallmark activities such as exploration, driving sequences, criminal heists, and immersive storylines, but with a notable improvement in graphics, as evidenced by the footage presented. This sneak peek was recorded on a PS5 console.
Protagonists in Action
In the upcoming installment, players can engage with two protagonists: Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos. The gameplay reveals intriguing dynamics, such as a high-speed police chase scene where Duval fires out of a car window while Caminos is at the wheel. Also demonstrated is a scenario where the roles reverse, placing players in control of Caminos as she navigates the getaway vehicle with Duval and another accomplice fending off the authorities. Another mission sequence shows them separated — Duval confronts adversaries from a tactical position, while Caminos attempts to stealthily avoid detection on another floor.
Diverse Gameplay and Mechanics
Additional glimpses from the preview include new gameplay features like a weapon selection wheel and activities such as boat navigation, basketball, underwater diving, track racing, and parachuting. Noteworthy is the vastness of the game’s environment, as noted by Rockstar’s Rob Nelson, who is referenced in a New York Times piece, highlighting a game map three times the size of Red Dead Redemption 2’s terrain, with a February playthrough spanning 80 hours covering main and optional missions.
Gameplay Choices and Dynamic Elements
Players can dynamically switch between Jason and Lucia at any point during the game or experience the story exclusively through the eyes of one character. Relationship dynamics between the two characters are left to the player’s discretion, with unique mechanics such as a hand-holding feature when in character. The Snapmatic feature returns, modified to fit the storyline of being fugitives, hence restricting posting capabilities.
In-Game Systems and Release Information
The beloved six-star wanted system makes a comeback, with heightened realism as police remember character profiles, prompting players to adapt by changing disguises. Car theft mechanics have added layers, with more expensive vehicles requiring specialised equipment for theft. Developers continue to address issues stemming from recently leaked footage, which they described as “heartbreaking”.
Grand Theft Auto VI will be available for purchase on November 19th for $79.99, although not through physical copies. Fans can view the extended preview on Rockstar’s YouTube channel and the official GTA VI website, set to go live at 9 PM ET on Thursday.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theverge.com.