Key facts clarified: official release window Fall 2026, map size roughly 70% larger than GTA V, no standalone uncut gameplay footage, layoffs impacting morale and timeline, platforms PS5 and Xbox Series X|S with PC to follow, and main characters set in Leonida, inspired by modern Florida.

Even with strong promotional momentum, internal challenges surfaced in November, including layoffs that raised questions about morale, potential union issues, and possible timelines.

The development balance is described as ambitious open-world design offset by real-world challenges, contributing to a more complicated path to the late-2026 launch.

Rockstar says gameplay will be demonstrated through trailers labeled as gameplay, but there has been no uncut gameplay footage released; most public materials remain cinematic renderings from the game engine.

Progress highlights include a map reportedly about 70% larger than GTA V, visually advanced environments, and numerous Easter eggs, though uncut gameplay footage has not been released.

The trailer shown on PS5 was rendered in-engine to address performance concerns, highlighting detailed visuals, dense wildlife, and sophisticated NPCs.

Two years after the first GTA 6 trailer, the game has evolved toward a late-2026 release window, with a more complex development story than initially anticipated.

GTA 6 is framed as a high-ambition project set in a sprawling Vice City-inspired world, but its development has been tumultuous, leaving questions about gameplay depth and release stability.

The initial trailer set records for views and engagement, signaling strong cultural impact and high anticipation for a detailed Vice City setting and dual-protagonist dynamic.

Late-2024 layoffs of over 30 staff, including senior roles, were attributed to misconduct; unions and staff view the moves as potentially union-busting and morale-damaging, adding uncertainty to the polishing phase before the 2026 launch.

Industry observers suggest the game is content-complete but still undergoing polishing, with questions about how the studio will deliver a compelling gameplay reveal amid ongoing uncertainty.

A second trailer confirmed the main characters as Jason and Lucia and introduced a six-region map, including Vice City, Grassrivers, and northern mountains, with the map estimated to be about 70% larger than GTA V.

The second trailer and comprehensive website reveal detailed the six map regions, teased weather systems, confirmed Jason and Lucia as protagonists, and suggested a violent survival premise.