GTA 6 release is probably one of the most anticipated ones of this decade. The gameplay, world-building, and storyline tone of the GTA series have undergone significant transformations over time. To ensure the success of the next instalment in the franchise, Rockstar Games should revisit its roots and incorporate elements that contributed to the franchise's massive success in the past. Introducing features from previous GTA titles or even the Red Dead Redemption games would bring a refreshing twist to the upcoming title.
By integrating such content, the game will avoid feeling overly similar to its predecessors and instead, showcase innovation that could captivate the gaming industry. With this goal in mind, here are three key changes that could propel the GTA series into a new era.
Detailing The World
Rockstar has consistently demonstrated mastery in world-building within the open-world genre, commencing with GTA 3, which stood out in 2001 for the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of Liberty City. More recently, the developer elevated standards with Red Dead Redemption 2, prompting expectations from fans for a comparable level of detail in GTA 6.
It is imperative that the game world avoids a sense of emptiness and reliance on filler regions. Despite boasting the largest map in the series, Grand Theft Auto 5's rendition of San Andreas feels notably vacant and unengaging.
In contrast, the 3D Universe's San Andreas was teeming with diverse locations to explore and activities to partake in. The forthcoming game should incorporate more towns and inhabitable areas, akin to the original San Andreas and the Red Dead Redemption titles. Additionally, the title should introduce a greater number of accessible interiors and unveil mysteries for players to uncover.
Incorporating Easter eggs would enhance the world's allure, providing a sense of reward for exploration. The inclusion of Strangers and Freaks random encounters would further enrich the GTA 6 experience.
Increasing Realism
Rockstar has consistently dabbled in realism within the Grand Theft Auto series. One installment may exude a distinctly arcade-like feel, while another leans towards heightened realism. Recent releases from the studio suggest a gradual shift towards realism, a trend notably evident in Red Dead Redemption 2.
Leaked information about GTA 6 in 2022 indicates a potential incorporation of realistic features, reminiscent of the reduced weapon-carrying capacity seen in Red Dead Redemption 2. The studio may also adopt the Cores feature from RDR2, where maintaining health, stamina, and the Dead Eye ability requires attention to food and other items. Notably, RDR2 struck a well-balanced realism without venturing into the extremes of a survival game.
As far back as 2003, Rockstar introduced elements of realism in Grand Theft Auto San Andreas. CJ had to eat to prevent starvation and weight loss, with the consequences of overeating leading to weight gain. Incorporating such realistic elements from both Red Dead Redemption 2 and Grand Theft Auto San Andreas would enhance the authenticity of GTA 6.
Increasing Focus On Single-Player
For more than a decade, enthusiasts have observed Rockstar gradually redirect its focus entirely towards Grand Theft Auto Online, the massively multiplayer segment of Grand Theft Auto 5. While this initially appeared acceptable, given the continuous updates enriching the multiplayer experience with new content, it became evident that this shift came at the expense of the single-player aspect.
Grand Theft Auto 5 missed out on intended DLCs and expansions, as Rockstar prioritized the more lucrative Grand Theft Auto Online. The recent leaks of GTA 5's source code confirmed that the developers had initially planned story mode DLCs.
It's noteworthy that Red Dead Online fans also voiced discontent, claiming Rockstar had neglected the game, particularly in comparison to the attention Grand Theft Auto Online received.
This is a trend Rockstar should avoid with the next title. There should be a greater emphasis on content exclusively designed for the single-player experience, akin to Episodes from Liberty City for Grand Theft Auto 4.