Rockstar's decision to release Grand Theft Auto VI first on PS5 and Xbox Series X, followed by PC, is not surprising, given that the previous title and Red Dead Redemption 2 adopted the same strategy. However, the PC versions of these games have historically performed better with powerful hardware, and GTA 6 is likely no exception. An IGN journalist shared their thoughts after watching the extended GTA 6 trailer on Netflix and explained why it might be best to skip the console version and wait for the PC release.
The extended trailer aired on Netflix left a deep impression. Ray tracing, global illumination, reflections, and dynamic shadows—especially in scenes by windows where shadows move across characters' faces—make this game a technical masterpiece. Unfortunately, however, the game was showcased on the base PS5, and frame rate drops were clearly visible in certain scenes. Previous reports indicated that the 60 FPS mode would only be available on the PS5 Pro, and the reason is now obvious: the extensive lighting effects and high-resolution textures place a heavy burden on the PS5. Even with Rockstar's top-tier optimization skills, whether the PS5 Pro can maintain a stable 60 FPS remains questionable. For this reason, leveraging powerful graphics cards on PC to break free from hardware limitations seems like the better choice.
Red Dead Redemption 2's performance on PC has already demonstrated the scalability of Rockstar Games' titles: graphics settings allow the game to run on low-end systems while also enabling visual quality that far surpasses PS4 and Xbox One levels. It is reasonable to believe that the PC version of GTA 6 will further enhance this feature. Of course, many players undoubtedly hope to get their hands on the game as soon as it launches on consoles in November. However, IGN believes that waiting for the PC version is worth it for a complete immersive experience. By the time the PC version is released, more powerful hardware may be available, along with the possibility of using mods.
"If the game already looks as impressive on PS5 as it did in the extended trailer, then the inevitable PC port will be absolutely breathtaking. I already wanted it before, but now—I desperately need it," the IGN journalist concluded.