GTA 6 vs GTA 5: Story, Map, Gameplay & Platforms
GTA 6 changes the story, map, gameplay, and platform availability compared to GTA 5, though Rockstar has not yet released the full details. This article compares what is known about GTA 6 with the established facts of GTA 5, covering story, map, gameplay mechanics, and platforms.
Background: From Los Santos to Leonida
GTA 5 launched in 2013 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, later ported to PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, and then re-released for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Its story follows three protagonists in the fictional state of San Andreas, centered on the city of Los Santos. GTA 6, officially announced in December 2023, is set in the fictional state of Leonida, which is based on Florida. The first trailer confirms a return to Vice City, the series’ iconic Miami-inspired location, but the map is expected to be much larger than GTA 5’s, potentially including surrounding areas like swamps and keys.
Story Differences: Three Protagonists vs. A Bonnie and Clyde Tale
GTA 5’s story is built around three playable characters: Michael, a retired bank robber; Franklin, a repo man; and Trevor, a violent criminal. Their intersecting lives lead to heists and a series of choices that affect the ending. GTA 6, based on the first trailer and leaked development footage, introduces a single playable protagonist, Lucia, who is involved in a criminal partnership with a male character named Jason. The narrative appears to follow a Bonnie and Clyde-style dynamic, with the two committing robberies across Leonida. Rockstar has not confirmed whether players will switch between Lucia and Jason, but the trailer strongly suggests a dual-lead story. This is a significant shift from GTA 5’s three-way structure, focusing more on a personal, relationship-driven crime saga.
Map Size and Setting: Vice City vs. Los Santos
GTA 5’s map is roughly 29 square miles (75 square kilometers), including Los Santos, the surrounding countryside, and a small military base. GTA 6’s map is expected to be substantially larger, with early reports suggesting it could be the largest in the series, possibly exceeding 100 square miles. The setting is Vice City and the wider Leonida state, which will include beaches, wetlands, and urban areas. While GTA 5’s map is mostly land with a small ocean, GTA 6 is likely to feature more water-based exploration, given the Florida inspiration. Rockstar has not released official map dimensions, but the trailer shows locations like a Vice City beach and a swamp, hinting at a more diverse environment.
Gameplay Mechanics: What’s New and What’s Improved
GTA 5 introduced a three-character switching system, allowing players to jump between Michael, Franklin, and Trevor in real time. GTA 6 is expected to refine this, possibly with a two-character system between Lucia and Jason, but no official confirmation exists. Other known improvements in GTA 6 include enhanced graphics, more realistic physics, and a dynamic weather system that includes hurricanes. The trailer shows high-quality character models and lighting, suggesting a significant visual leap. Rockstar has also hinted at more interactive environments, but specific mechanics like car customization or police behavior have not been detailed. GTA 5’s online mode, GTA Online, is a major component, and GTA 6 is expected to have a new online experience, though details are scarce.
Platforms: Which Systems Can You Play On?
GTA 5 is available on nearly every major platform: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. GTA 6, according to the official announcement, will launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. A PC version has not been officially confirmed, but given Rockstar’s history of delayed PC ports (GTA 5 came to PC a year after consoles), it is likely to arrive later. The game will not be released on older consoles like PlayStation 4 or Xbox One, as Rockstar has stated these platforms lack the necessary power. This is a major difference from GTA 5, which spanned two console generations.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
One common misconception is that GTA 6 will be a remake of Vice City. While it returns to the same city, it is a new story and a new interpretation, not a remaster. Another is that the game will be released on PC at launch; based on Rockstar’s past behavior, this is unlikely. Players also wonder if GTA 6 will have microtransactions like GTA Online; Rockstar has not confirmed, but it is probable given the company’s success with GTA Online’s Shark Cards. Finally, some expect the map to be the size of the entire United States, but that is unrealistic; the game will be large but not continent-sized.
How to Choose: Should You Wait or Play GTA 5 Now?
If you are eager to play a new GTA game, GTA 5 is still a solid choice, especially if you haven’t played it. It offers a huge single-player campaign and a thriving online mode. However, if you want the latest graphics and a new story, waiting for GTA 6 is the better option. The release date is currently set for 2025, but delays are common in game development. If you have a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X|S, GTA 5 is available at a low price, and it can hold you over. If you only have a PC, you may be waiting longer for GTA 6, so GTA 5 is the only current option.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is GTA 6 coming out?
Rockstar has announced a release window of 2025 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. A PC version is not officially confirmed, but it is expected to come later, possibly in 2026.
Will GTA 6 be on PC?
Rockstar has not announced a PC version, but given the history of GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, it is likely to be released on PC one to two years after the console launch.
Is GTA 6 a remake of Vice City?
No, GTA 6 is a new game set in the Vice City area, but it is not a remake. It has a new story, new characters, and a modern setting, similar to how GTA 5 was a new game set in Los Santos.
How big is the GTA 6 map?
Rockstar has not released official dimensions, but leaks and the trailer suggest it will be larger than GTA 5’s map, possibly including more water and rural areas. Expect it to be the biggest in the series.
Will GTA 6 have multiple protagonists?
Based on the trailer and leaks, it appears to feature two protagonists, Lucia and Jason, but Rockstar has not confirmed if you can switch between them like in GTA 5.
Is GTA 5 still worth playing in 2024?
Yes, GTA 5 offers a massive single-player campaign and a robust online mode. It is a great way to experience the series while waiting for GTA 6, especially if you haven’t played it.
Related
Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.