Reports indicate that Rockstar Games is adding systems closer to role-playing and life simulation in GTA 6. Players can choose their own pace, switching between criminal activities like chases and heists and daily life, but the game will not rely on traditional RPG elements such as level progression or rare equipment collection.
Development lead Aaron Garbut stated that players can participate in criminal missions, but also purchase everyday items, take trains, go to nightclubs, or even opt for a quieter lifestyle. This level of freedom also extends to Jason and Lucia's relationship, fitness activities, sleep schedules, and refueling cars.
The game is also said to feature more realistic police responses, meaning escape methods players are familiar with from previous titles may not always work. Rob Nelson, co-head of Rockstar, stated that these simulation mechanics will not burden players with forced timers, as the design goal is to allow players to deeply engage with their chosen playstyle.
Technical Director Phil Hook also mentioned that urban public ground transportation and its schedules will be meticulously simulated. This information currently comes from secondary reports of an Edge interview; the extent of mandatory mechanics, final implementation, and whether they will remain intact in the final release still await confirmation from the original interview and future official announcements from Rockstar.