The streets of Vice City roar back to life. Rockstar Games stunned fans with the release of the second Grand Theft Auto VI trailer, fueling anticipation for one of the decade’s most awaited games. Tailored exclusively for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, the video offers a vivid glimpse into the chaotic, vibrant universe players will explore in May 2026. The confirmed date, following earlier delays, marks a new milestone for the franchise that redefined open-world gaming.
Unveiled on May 6, 2025, the trailer has already garnered millions of views, reigniting discussions about GTA 6’s influence on the gaming industry. Rockstar’s decision to focus solely on next-gen consoles, bypassing older platforms like PS4 and Xbox One, stems from the project’s ambitious scope. The absence of a PC version at launch has also sparked mixed reactions among players.
Key highlights from the announcement include:
- Launch date set for May 26, 2026.
- Expanded Vice City map within the fictional state of Leonida.
- Photorealistic visuals demanding cutting-edge hardware.
- Potential crossplay between PS5 and Xbox Series, yet to be confirmed.
The wait for GTA 6 details has been arduous. Since the first trailer dropped in December 2023, fans have eagerly awaited updates, and Rockstar’s prolonged silence only heightened global curiosity.
Fan reactions to the new trailer
The gaming community erupted with excitement over the second trailer, though not without critiques. Social media and forums buzzed with frame-by-frame analyses, praising the visual fidelity and a soundtrack evoking the 80s and 90s, a nod to Miami’s aesthetic. Many lauded the action-packed scenes, showcasing high-speed chases and dynamic environmental interactions. However, the lack of pure gameplay footage raised questions about the game’s real-world performance.
Some fans voiced frustration over the exclusivity to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. PC gamers, in particular, expressed disappointment at the lack of a launch date for their platform, a recurring strategy from Rockstar, which prioritizes consoles initially. The decision reflects the game’s technical complexity, promising a larger, more detailed open world than any prior title in the series.
Attention now shifts to potential promotional events in the coming months, with speculation that Rockstar may share more at trade shows like E3 or through dedicated streams. The May 2026 date, while distant, was welcomed as a firm commitment after the delay announced in May 2025.
Vice City reimagined
The second trailer dives deep into GTA 6’s setting, presenting Vice City like never before. Drawing inspiration from Miami, the fictional city bursts with sun-soaked beaches, gleaming skyscrapers, and gritty neighborhoods that contrast with its glamor. The state of Leonida, encompassing Vice City, also features rural areas, swamps, and small towns, hinting at a diverse map.
Rockstar emphasized interactive elements, such as dynamic day-night cycles, variable weather, and NPCs with more lifelike behaviors. The trailer showcases street festivals, illegal races, and even alligators in swamps, underscoring the immersive environment. The promise is a world that reacts organically to player actions, raising the bar set by GTA V.
Technical details stand out:
- Map estimated at 48.2 square miles, nearly double GTA V’s size.
- Photorealistic textures optimized for next-gen hardware.
- Enhanced physics system for vehicles and interactions.
- Soundtrack featuring over 100 licensed tracks.
- Ray tracing support for real-time lighting and reflections.
The focus on next-gen consoles reflects the need for power to support these advancements, but it also restricts initial access for players with older hardware.
Nextrapeutic value of next-gen exclusivity
Limiting GTA 6 to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S has sparked heated debates. Rockstar justified the exclusivity by the need to fully harness the capabilities of the latest consoles. The game promises 4K visuals, stable frame rates, and reduced load times—features unfeasible on decade-old platforms like PS4 and Xbox One.
The trailer highlights visual quality, with intricate details in asphalt textures, foliage, and water effects. The density of NPCs in Vice City’s streets suggests a significant technical leap, with advanced AI systems. For consoles, this ensures an optimized experience, but for PC fans, the wait for an adapted version may stretch to 2027, following Rockstar’s historical launch patterns.
The exclusivity also influences the console market. With GTA 6 slated for May 2026, analysts predict a surge in PS5 and Xbox Series sales, particularly among players yet to upgrade. Retailers are already anticipating bundles featuring the game.
Delay and Rockstar’s strategy
The delay of GTA 6 to May 2026, announced on May 2, 2025, caught many off guard. Originally slated for fall 2025, the game was postponed to ensure the quality fans expect. Rockstar stressed that the extra time will refine the experience, avoiding the launch issues plaguing other recent AAA titles.
Rockstar’s marketing approach also draws attention. Unlike developers who reveal details years in advance, the studio remains guarded. The first trailer, released in December 2023, was followed by a 17-month silence before the second. This tactic sustains hype but fuels fan speculation and theories.
Development timeline:
- Initial announcement: December 2023, with the first trailer.
- Expected launch: Fall 2025, per Take-Two’s statement.
- Delay announced: May 2, 2025, shifting to May 2026.
- Second trailer: May 6, 2025, confirming the new date.
Fans’ patience is tested, but Rockstar’s track record of delivering groundbreaking games bolsters confidence in the wait.
Pricing and editions
GTA 6’s pricing remains unconfirmed, but speculation points to a premium. Analysts suggest the standard edition may retail at $80 in the U.S., reflecting the rising cost of AAA games. Special editions, with digital or physical extras, could exceed $100, while markets like Brazil may see prices starting at $80-$90.
Microtransactions, a staple of GTA Online, are also expected. Rockstar will likely retain the model that made GTA V a financial juggernaut, with sales of cosmetic items and in-game currency. Take-Two projects GTA 6 to surpass $1 billion in pre-orders, underscoring the project’s scale.
Pricing factors案
Factors influencing cost:
- Development costs estimated at $2 billion.
- Rising prices for next-gen games.
- Exclusive content in collector’s editions.
- Long-term support for online mode, potentially spanning a decade.
Players are already gearing up to pre-order, with retailers awaiting the official start of pre-sales, expected by late 2025.
Online mode expectations
The online mode for GTA 6 is highly anticipated. GTA Online, launched with GTA V, continues to draw millions with regular updates, and expectations are high for its successor. The second trailer hints at an integrated online mode from launch, featuring heists, races, and community events in Vice City.
Rockstar promises stronger servers, supporting up to 32 simultaneous players, with expanded cooperative mechanics. Rumors suggest a dynamic progression system, letting players build personalized criminal empires. Crossplay between PS5 and Xbox Series remains unconfirmed but possible.
GTA Online’s longevity, generating billions, sets the precedent. Rockstar plans ongoing updates for GTA 6, with seasonal content and narrative expansions to ensure relevance for years.
Hardware and technical performance
GTA 6 is built to maximize PS5 and Xbox Series X/S hardware. The trailer showcases native 4K resolution, with performance options ranging from 30 to 60 FPS, depending on the graphics mode. Ray tracing for lighting and reflections promises immersion but demands powerful consoles.
Compatibility with the PS5 Pro, launched in 2024, is confirmed, enhancing textures and frame rates. For Xbox Series X, Microsoft emphasized the console’s ability to handle GTA 6’s expansive map without performance hits. Base consoles like the Xbox Series S may face limitations, using dynamic resolutions for fluidity.
Expected technical requirements:
- Storage: Approximately 150 GB.
- SSD support for faster load times.
- Resolution: Native 4K on PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X.
- Frame rate: 60 FPS in performance mode.
- Support for 3D audio and DualSense haptic feedback.
The lack of PS4 and Xbox One support cements the shift to next-gen, excluding a significant player base.
Industry ripple effects
The second trailer’s release solidified GTA 6 as a defining event for 2026. Take-Two, Rockstar’s parent company, saw stock gains post-announcement, reflecting investor confidence. Analysts predict GTA 6 will dominate sales and boost the gaming industry, attracting new players and driving console purchases.
Competing developers are adjusting schedules to avoid clashing with GTA 6’s May 2026 launch. Smaller titles or expansions may delay to evade its shadow. Retailers plan themed promotions and limited-edition consoles, amplifying the game’s market presence.
The hype permeates pop culture, with Vice City references in memes, fan videos, and ad campaigns. The trailer’s 80s-inspired soundtrack fuels streaming playlists, highlighting GTA 6’s cultural reach.
Development insights
GTA 6’s creation is as monumental as the game itself. Rockstar invested over a decade, with teams across North America and Europe. Development leveraged advanced motion-capture tech, with real actors portraying protagonists Lucia and her unnamed partner.
The $2 billion budget, among the largest in gaming history, covers map creation to music licensing. Challenges included 2022 leaks exposing early footage, prompting the first trailer’s rushed reveal.
Notable facts:
- Over 3,000 developers contributed to the project.
- Leonida’s map features over 100 unique landmarks.
- NPC AI trained on real human behavior data.
- Multilingual voice acting, including Portuguese.
Rockstar’s commitment to an authentic, living world explains the delays and extended production cycle.

The streets of Vice City roar back to life. Rockstar Games stunned fans with the release of the second Grand Theft Auto VI trailer, fueling anticipation for one of the decade’s most awaited games. Tailored exclusively for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, the video offers a vivid glimpse into the chaotic, vibrant universe players will explore in May 2026. The confirmed date, following earlier delays, marks a new milestone for the franchise that redefined open-world gaming.
Unveiled on May 6, 2025, the trailer has already garnered millions of views, reigniting discussions about GTA 6’s influence on the gaming industry. Rockstar’s decision to focus solely on next-gen consoles, bypassing older platforms like PS4 and Xbox One, stems from the project’s ambitious scope. The absence of a PC version at launch has also sparked mixed reactions among players.
Key highlights from the announcement include:
- Launch date set for May 26, 2026.
- Expanded Vice City map within the fictional state of Leonida.
- Photorealistic visuals demanding cutting-edge hardware.
- Potential crossplay between PS5 and Xbox Series, yet to be confirmed.
The wait for GTA 6 details has been arduous. Since the first trailer dropped in December 2023, fans have eagerly awaited updates, and Rockstar’s prolonged silence only heightened global curiosity.
Fan reactions to the new trailer
The gaming community erupted with excitement over the second trailer, though not without critiques. Social media and forums buzzed with frame-by-frame analyses, praising the visual fidelity and a soundtrack evoking the 80s and 90s, a nod to Miami’s aesthetic. Many lauded the action-packed scenes, showcasing high-speed chases and dynamic environmental interactions. However, the lack of pure gameplay footage raised questions about the game’s real-world performance.
Some fans voiced frustration over the exclusivity to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. PC gamers, in particular, expressed disappointment at the lack of a launch date for their platform, a recurring strategy from Rockstar, which prioritizes consoles initially. The decision reflects the game’s technical complexity, promising a larger, more detailed open world than any prior title in the series.
Attention now shifts to potential promotional events in the coming months, with speculation that Rockstar may share more at trade shows like E3 or through dedicated streams. The May 2026 date, while distant, was welcomed as a firm commitment after the delay announced in May 2025.
Vice City reimagined
The second trailer dives deep into GTA 6’s setting, presenting Vice City like never before. Drawing inspiration from Miami, the fictional city bursts with sun-soaked beaches, gleaming skyscrapers, and gritty neighborhoods that contrast with its glamor. The state of Leonida, encompassing Vice City, also features rural areas, swamps, and small towns, hinting at a diverse map.
Rockstar emphasized interactive elements, such as dynamic day-night cycles, variable weather, and NPCs with more lifelike behaviors. The trailer showcases street festivals, illegal races, and even alligators in swamps, underscoring the immersive environment. The promise is a world that reacts organically to player actions, raising the bar set by GTA V.
Technical details stand out:
- Map estimated at 48.2 square miles, nearly double GTA V’s size.
- Photorealistic textures optimized for next-gen hardware.
- Enhanced physics system for vehicles and interactions.
- Soundtrack featuring over 100 licensed tracks.
- Ray tracing support for real-time lighting and reflections.
The focus on next-gen consoles reflects the need for power to support these advancements, but it also restricts initial access for players with older hardware.
Nextrapeutic value of next-gen exclusivity
Limiting GTA 6 to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S has sparked heated debates. Rockstar justified the exclusivity by the need to fully harness the capabilities of the latest consoles. The game promises 4K visuals, stable frame rates, and reduced load times—features unfeasible on decade-old platforms like PS4 and Xbox One.
The trailer highlights visual quality, with intricate details in asphalt textures, foliage, and water effects. The density of NPCs in Vice City’s streets suggests a significant technical leap, with advanced AI systems. For consoles, this ensures an optimized experience, but for PC fans, the wait for an adapted version may stretch to 2027, following Rockstar’s historical launch patterns.
The exclusivity also influences the console market. With GTA 6 slated for May 2026, analysts predict a surge in PS5 and Xbox Series sales, particularly among players yet to upgrade. Retailers are already anticipating bundles featuring the game.
Delay and Rockstar’s strategy
The delay of GTA 6 to May 2026, announced on May 2, 2025, caught many off guard. Originally slated for fall 2025, the game was postponed to ensure the quality fans expect. Rockstar stressed that the extra time will refine the experience, avoiding the launch issues plaguing other recent AAA titles.
Rockstar’s marketing approach also draws attention. Unlike developers who reveal details years in advance, the studio remains guarded. The first trailer, released in December 2023, was followed by a 17-month silence before the second. This tactic sustains hype but fuels fan speculation and theories.
Development timeline:
- Initial announcement: December 2023, with the first trailer.
- Expected launch: Fall 2025, per Take-Two’s statement.
- Delay announced: May 2, 2025, shifting to May 2026.
- Second trailer: May 6, 2025, confirming the new date.
Fans’ patience is tested, but Rockstar’s track record of delivering groundbreaking games bolsters confidence in the wait.
Pricing and editions
GTA 6’s pricing remains unconfirmed, but speculation points to a premium. Analysts suggest the standard edition may retail at $80 in the U.S., reflecting the rising cost of AAA games. Special editions, with digital or physical extras, could exceed $100, while markets like Brazil may see prices starting at $80-$90.
Microtransactions, a staple of GTA Online, are also expected. Rockstar will likely retain the model that made GTA V a financial juggernaut, with sales of cosmetic items and in-game currency. Take-Two projects GTA 6 to surpass $1 billion in pre-orders, underscoring the project’s scale.
Pricing factors案
Factors influencing cost:
- Development costs estimated at $2 billion.
- Rising prices for next-gen games.
- Exclusive content in collector’s editions.
- Long-term support for online mode, potentially spanning a decade.
Players are already gearing up to pre-order, with retailers awaiting the official start of pre-sales, expected by late 2025.
Online mode expectations
The online mode for GTA 6 is highly anticipated. GTA Online, launched with GTA V, continues to draw millions with regular updates, and expectations are high for its successor. The second trailer hints at an integrated online mode from launch, featuring heists, races, and community events in Vice City.
Rockstar promises stronger servers, supporting up to 32 simultaneous players, with expanded cooperative mechanics. Rumors suggest a dynamic progression system, letting players build personalized criminal empires. Crossplay between PS5 and Xbox Series remains unconfirmed but possible.
GTA Online’s longevity, generating billions, sets the precedent. Rockstar plans ongoing updates for GTA 6, with seasonal content and narrative expansions to ensure relevance for years.
Hardware and technical performance
GTA 6 is built to maximize PS5 and Xbox Series X/S hardware. The trailer showcases native 4K resolution, with performance options ranging from 30 to 60 FPS, depending on the graphics mode. Ray tracing for lighting and reflections promises immersion but demands powerful consoles.
Compatibility with the PS5 Pro, launched in 2024, is confirmed, enhancing textures and frame rates. For Xbox Series X, Microsoft emphasized the console’s ability to handle GTA 6’s expansive map without performance hits. Base consoles like the Xbox Series S may face limitations, using dynamic resolutions for fluidity.
Expected technical requirements:
- Storage: Approximately 150 GB.
- SSD support for faster load times.
- Resolution: Native 4K on PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X.
- Frame rate: 60 FPS in performance mode.
- Support for 3D audio and DualSense haptic feedback.
The lack of PS4 and Xbox One support cements the shift to next-gen, excluding a significant player base.
Industry ripple effects
The second trailer’s release solidified GTA 6 as a defining event for 2026. Take-Two, Rockstar’s parent company, saw stock gains post-announcement, reflecting investor confidence. Analysts predict GTA 6 will dominate sales and boost the gaming industry, attracting new players and driving console purchases.
Competing developers are adjusting schedules to avoid clashing with GTA 6’s May 2026 launch. Smaller titles or expansions may delay to evade its shadow. Retailers plan themed promotions and limited-edition consoles, amplifying the game’s market presence.
The hype permeates pop culture, with Vice City references in memes, fan videos, and ad campaigns. The trailer’s 80s-inspired soundtrack fuels streaming playlists, highlighting GTA 6’s cultural reach.
Development insights
GTA 6’s creation is as monumental as the game itself. Rockstar invested over a decade, with teams across North America and Europe. Development leveraged advanced motion-capture tech, with real actors portraying protagonists Lucia and her unnamed partner.
The $2 billion budget, among the largest in gaming history, covers map creation to music licensing. Challenges included 2022 leaks exposing early footage, prompting the first trailer’s rushed reveal.
Notable facts:
- Over 3,000 developers contributed to the project.
- Leonida’s map features over 100 unique landmarks.
- NPC AI trained on real human behavior data.
- Multilingual voice acting, including Portuguese.
Rockstar’s commitment to an authentic, living world explains the delays and extended production cycle.
