The Daily Star Lebanon Breaking News, Lebanon News, Middle East News & World News
Rockstar Games has finally ended years of speculation by confirming that Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) will release worldwide on May 26, 2026. The announcement cements the arrival of one of the most anticipated titles in gaming history, following the record-breaking success of GTA V, which has sold more than 195 million copies and generated over $8 billion in revenue since 2013.
Two official trailers have already dropped, offering fans their first look at the story, characters, and setting. With promises of a larger, more immersive world and groundbreaking gameplay mechanics, Rockstar is aiming to redefine what players expect from open-world gaming.
Dual Protagonists and a Crime-Driven Storyline
For the first time since GTA V’s multi-character structure, GTA VI will feature two main protagonists—Jason and Lucia. Their journey begins when a routine job spirals out of control, pulling them into a dangerous criminal network that stretches across the fictional state of Leonida.
According to Rockstar, the narrative will focus on survival, loyalty, and betrayal, with cinematic cut-scenes, elaborate heists, and branching storylines shaping the player experience. The game will allow players to switch between characters during missions, offering multiple perspectives on the same criminal underworld.
Vice City Returns, Bigger Than Ever
One of the biggest draws for longtime fans is the return to Vice City, first introduced in the 2002 classic GTA: Vice City. Rockstar has described the setting as “the neon-soaked streets of Vice City and beyond,” hinting at a map far larger than anything in previous entries.
Leaked reports suggest the world will include not only the vibrant urban sprawl but also rural towns, swamps, beaches, and extensive highway systems. The game world will reportedly evolve over time, with new content—such as missions, locations, and events—added after launch, ensuring GTA VI remains fresh long after release.
Expansive Cast and Evolved Gameplay
Alongside Jason and Lucia, players can expect to meet a diverse lineup of characters, including figures like Cal Hampton, Boobie Ike, Raul Batista, and Real Dimez—names that surfaced in earlier leaks and are believed to play pivotal roles as either allies or adversaries.
Gameplay will build on the foundation of classic GTA experiences—open-world freedom, car chases, shootouts, and high-stakes heists—while integrating new systems that make the world more interactive and responsive. Rockstar has hinted at dynamic NPC behavior, evolving in-game economies, and missions that adapt to player choices.
Pricing, Platforms, and Availability
While Rockstar has not officially confirmed the price, industry reports suggest GTA VI will launch at around $70 (₹5,800) for standard editions, consistent with other recent AAA releases. Pre-orders are expected to go live in early 2026.
The game will debut on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with a PC version expected later, following Rockstar’s traditional release strategy.
A New Era for Rockstar Games
With GTA V having dominated the gaming industry for over a decade, the expectations for GTA VI could not be higher. Rockstar is positioning the game as its most ambitious project ever, blending cutting-edge technology, storytelling depth, and an evolving game world designed to keep players engaged for years.
For fans, the long wait is nearly over—May 26, 2026 is the date to circle on the calendar, as the next chapter in the Grand Theft Auto saga finally comes to life.
