GTA 6 is launching more than 12 years after GTA V — the longest gap between mainline GTA releases. The technological leap, story ambition, and gameplay overhaul are correspondingly massive. Here’s the head-to-head comparison of what to expect, based on confirmed details and Rockstar’s RAGE engine upgrades.
Quick comparison
| Aspect | GTA V (2013) | GTA 6 (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Protagonists | 3 (Michael, Franklin, Trevor) | 2 (Jason, Lucia) |
| Setting | Los Santos (LA analog) | Vice City + Leonida (Florida) |
| Map size | ~75 km² | ~120-200 km² (estimated) |
| Engine | RAGE 7 | RAGE 9 (or successor) |
| Launch platforms | PS3, Xbox 360 | PS5, Xbox Series X|S |
1. Map and setting
GTA V’s Los Santos was inspired by Los Angeles. GTA 6 returns to Vice City (Miami) for the first time since 2002’s Vice City, but extends the playable area to the full state of Leonida — Florida-style wetlands, beaches, and rural towns. The result is likely 1.5-2.5x the playable area. See our GTA 6 map size analysis.
2. Protagonists and story
GTA V’s three-protagonist switching becomes a two-protagonist romantic partnership in GTA 6. Jason and Lucia are positioned as a Bonnie-and-Clyde duo rather than three independent criminals.
3. Graphics and physics
The engine leap from RAGE 7 to its modern successor enables:
- Ray-traced lighting for global illumination, reflections, shadows
- RDR2-quality wildlife and weather systems
- Improved water and fluid simulation (visible in trailer)
- Higher NPC density and more reactive crowds
- Detailed interiors rivaling Cyberpunk 2077
4. Online mode evolution
GTA Online has dominated multiplayer since 2013 and is expected to be Rockstar’s primary post-launch revenue driver. GTA 6 Online will likely launch as a standalone mode or with a delayed online launch (similar to RDR2).
5. PC hardware demands
GTA V’s PC release ran comfortably on a GTX 660 / HD 7870. GTA 6 PC will need substantially more — see our GTA 6 PC system requirements overview. Expected minimums:
- GPU: GTX 1070 / RX 5500 XT class
- CPU: i5-8400 / Ryzen 5 2600 class
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 150+ GB on SSD
Should you replay GTA 5 before GTA 6?
GTA 5’s story holds up well and gives useful context for the GTA universe’s tone. But Jason and Lucia’s story is standalone — there’s no plot requirement to play GTA 5 first. Replay if you enjoy the series; skip if you’re new to GTA.
Frequently asked questions
When does GTA 6 release?
GTA 6’s release window has been confirmed for late 2025 / early 2026 on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. A PC release will follow later, with no official date confirmed yet. See our GTA 6 PC release date analysis for the latest timeline.
Will GTA 6 come to PC?
Yes, but not on day one. Rockstar’s pattern is to release PC versions 12-24 months after console launch. See our GTA 6 PC system requirements overview for what to expect.
How much will GTA 6 cost?
Pricing has not been officially confirmed. Industry expectations place GTA 6 at $69.99-$79.99 USD for the standard edition. Premium and Collector’s editions are expected to follow. See our GTA 6 price analysis for details.