As reported by GameSpark, international media outlet DAZED recently interviewed several developers, revealing details about the development and gameplay of Grand Theft Auto VI. The report indicates that the game's production cycle may have approached 13 years.
According to DAZED, it has been 13 years since the release of Grand Theft Auto V, and the development of its sequel has taken nearly the same amount of time. Rob Nelson, Head of Development at Rockstar North and Co-Studio Head, stated that the team is under "unprecedented pressure," but developers hold themselves to higher standards than the external pressures they face.
Set in the fictional state of Leonida, featuring Vice City and its surrounding areas, the story revolves around Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos. The two protagonists can act together or separately. While driving, players can switch from Jason, who is behind the wheel, to Lucia in the passenger seat, allowing them to operate her smartphone.
During vehicle chases, players can switch characters depending on the situation, with one handling driving and the other attacking pursuers from the passenger seat. The report also mentions a body transformation system: eating affects the weight of the two protagonists, while consistent exercise gradually builds muscle and tones their bodies.
Characters' lifestyles are also reflected in their appearance. If Jason and Lucia go for extended periods without resting in bed, continuously evade police pursuits, or spend days out having fun, their faces and bodies will show corresponding changes. Players' activities in the game will directly impact the physical state of the two protagonists.
DAZED also covered the creation of Vice City NPCs, the development team's field research in Miami, and the involvement of over 50 real street artists. The official extended preview video for Grand Theft Auto VI is scheduled to be released on Netflix at 4:00 AM JST on August 28; the game is set to launch on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S on November 19, 2026.