Decoding Grand Theft Auto VI's Development Timeline: A Fan's Speculative Journey
Decoding Grand Theft Auto VI's Development Timeline: A Fan's Speculative Journey
A Reddit user has put forth a highly speculative, yet meticulously detailed, timeline for Grand Theft Auto VI's development. The core premise suggests that Rockstar Games typically initiates work on a new GTA title approximately two years after the previous installment's release. Based on GTA V's 2013 launch, the author posits that the initial conceptual phase for GTA VI commenced around 2016, with a definitive decision to set the game in a modern-day Vice City by that same year. The theory breaks down the subsequent years into distinct development stages, including design, world-building, performance capture, and technological advancement. Employing a recurring 'plus three years' pattern, the author projects a Grand Theft Auto VI release in 2026, followed by a PC version in 2028, and even extends predictions to the future of GTA VII.
Key Takeaways
- Rockstar Games is theorized to begin development on new GTA titles roughly two years after the preceding game's release.
- Based on GTA V's 2013 launch, GTA VI's conceptualization is believed to have started around 2016.
- By 2016, the decision to set GTA VI in a modern-day Vice City (2023) was reportedly solidified, rather than a 1983 setting.
- The speculative development phases include: Concept (2016-2017), Designing (2017-2018), World Building (2018-2019), Performance Capture (2019-2020), and Core Technology/Development (2020-2022).
- A 'plus three years' pattern is used to predict major milestones:
- 2016: Vice City concept solidified ('GTA VICE CITY 3rd sequel' - a quirky observation by the author).
- 2019: 'Project Americas' (Florida-based setting) became clear.
- 2022: Major leaks, including the Rockstar hack, occurred.
- 2023: Trailer 1 released (following a hacker's arrest in December).
- 2025: Trailer 2 is predicted to release.
- 2026: Grand Theft Auto VI is projected for release.
- 2028: Grand Theft Auto VI PC version is speculated to launch.
- The theory extends to GTA VII, predicting its start in 2031 and release in 2037, potentially set in a future London (2029).
- The author notes an NPC dialogue from GTA V (2013) mentioning 'moving to Vice City' as an early hint.
FAQ
When does this theory suggest GTA VI development truly began?
The theory posits that initial conceptualization for GTA VI started around 2016, roughly two to three years after GTA V's release in 2013.
What is the speculated release year for GTA VI according to this timeline?
Based on the author's 'plus three years' pattern, Grand Theft Auto VI is projected for release in 2026, with a PC version potentially following in 2028.
What evidence does the author use to support the Vice City setting?
The author points to an NPC dialogue in GTA V (2013) about 'moving to Vice City' and the presence of 'Vice City, 2023' in the official trailer as supporting clues for an early decision on the setting.
Does the timeline extend beyond GTA VI?
Yes, the author speculates on GTA VII, suggesting it could begin development in 2031 and release in 2037, potentially set in a futuristic London (2029).