Rob Nelson, Rockstar's Head of Development and Co-Studio Head, revealed in an interview with the international media outletIGNthat in *Grand Theft Auto VI*, players will no longer be "omnipotent" as they were in previous titles.
People Around the World Have Their Own Impulses
Nelson explained, “The world affects you, and you affect the world. In past ‘GTA’ games, the player was somewhat omnipotent.” In previous installments, aside from the police, only the player possessed a hidden “invisible arsenal,” and people around the world would simply flee in fear.
“The world of ‘GTA 6’ isn’t like that,” said Nelson. In this installment, NPCs have their own impulses and may even attack the player.
“You’re still powerful and capable, but you’re not the only one capable of violence, the only one with weapons, or the only crazy person. This makes the world far more unpredictable and interesting,” he said.
The “Criminal Profile” System
This game features a new system called “Criminal Profile.” Unlike the Honor System in *Red Dead Redemption 2*, there is reportedly no “right” or “wrong” way to play.
Jason and Lucia are “fugitives,” and the story design encourages players to act without drawing unnecessary attention. While actions required for missions, robbing stores, and dealing with confrontations are legitimate behaviors, “if you consistently go beyond what’s necessary, your Criminal Profile may begin to skew in a certain direction,” the developers explained.
Enhanced Wanted System
The police system has also been significantly enhanced. Under the new “Heat” system, the police keep track of the player’s appearance and clothing. Even if you wear a hat or glasses, the police will continue to recognize who you are until you change your clothes.
Additionally, under the wanted system, a crime isn’t reported to the police unless someone witnesses it or an alarm is triggered. If you commit a crime and flee the scene before the police arrive, you’ll generally be fine. It seems that “hit-and-run” style gameplay is encouraged.
Two People Living Their Own Lives
The interview also revealed that Jason and Lucia each have their own unique routines. When you switch between characters, you might find them at the safe house, or out and about doing various things.
The demo also featured some unexpected scenes. In one scene where Lucia encounters a man inside a trash can, you can choose to give him medicine, and he’ll later offer legal advice when you meet him again. “You can even climb into the trash can with him!” said Nelson.
Furthermore, when switching to Jason, there’s a scene where the protagonist is taking a shower naked. “Oh, or when you switch, you’ll find Jason taking a shower!” Mr. Nelson said with a laugh.
Money as a Key Element
Nelson also revealed, “Money plays a more important role in this story than in any previous GTA game.” There are situations where you’ll need to actually earn money—such as by stealing and selling cars or robbing stores—and funds are required to progress through missions.
He also noted that food has a dramatic effect on health and is useful because it provides a significant boost. You can increase your muscle mass and strength by going to the gym to train, and the game also features a system where overeating causes you to gain weight.
An Experience of “Being in the World” Even More Than in RDR2
“More than in ‘Red Dead Redemption 2,’ simply being present in the world is just as important as the story itself,” said Nelson. While Michael, Trevor, and Franklin in ‘GTA 5’ could do various things in the open world, their actions weren’t always aligned with their stories or characters.
“In this game, however, in addition to exploration, you can constantly earn money as Jason and Lucia to get out of tight spots, or spend time together to strengthen your relationship.”
*Grand Theft Auto VI* is scheduled for release on November 19, 2026, forPS5/XBOX Series X|S.
