GTA 6 will feature the most diverse animal lineup in Rockstar Games' history, with over 170 different species, including more than 60 types of birds, over 30 land mammals, as well as various reptiles, fish, and more.
Whether you discover them in the wilds of GTA 6 or see them in the enclosures of Leonida's zoos, there's plenty to explore. Here's what we currently know about GTA 6's animal system.
Visiting the zoo is one of the many side activities in GTA 6, but if you want to tour peacefully, you'll need to clear your wanted status first. Through trailers, screenshots, and gameplay previews, we've already learned about many animals that will appear in GTA 6, including:
Cats, including domestic and wild cats
Dogs, including multiple breeds
Nine-banded armadillo
Rhesus macaque
Sharks, including multiple species
These animals include both common local wildlife and invasive species, reflecting the rich biodiversity of real-life Florida. After extensive research, each animal will have animations that match its characteristics. The addition of elements like iridescence, bioluminescence, translucency, and different types of feathers will make them look more realistic than ever before. Animal fur and coats have also been upgraded: a new fur system can not only display different colors but also show changes when wet or clumped with environmental mud.
According to Rockstar's previously released extended gameplay footage, when you approach animals in GTA 6, the game provides multiple interaction options, and the animals will respond accordingly. When Jason encounters a Dog.exe in an apartment complex, he can praise it from afar; upon getting closer, he can choose to scold or pet it. More importantly, the game also offers an option to study animals. Once studied, the animal will be recorded in the compendium, similar to Red Dead Redemption 2. Completing the logbook by investigating various creatures may even yield rewards.
In addition to the common animals found throughout Leonida, Rockstar has confirmed that there will be many unusual creatures for players to track down, similar to the Red Dead Redemption series. These animals will be divided into three categories: Rare, Discoverable, and Legendary. Beyond that, Rockstar remains tight-lipped about specific details, hoping players will discover surprises while exploring on their own.
