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GTA 6 is an open-world action game from Rockstar Games, releasing November 19, 2026 on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. You play as Jason and Lucia, a criminal couple in Leonida, Rockstar's version of Florida, and you can follow the story or roam freely: driving, exploring, taking on side activities and causing trouble. If you've never played a Grand Theft Auto game, this guide explains what to expect and how to get started.
Key Takeaways
- GTA 6 is an open-world crime game. You can follow missions or explore freely.
- You play as two characters, Jason and Lucia, and can switch between them.
- It's on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S from November 19, 2026, priced from $79.99.
- GTA games are made for adults. Check your region's age rating before buying for someone else.
- You don't need to have played earlier GTA games to follow the story.
What Is the GTA 6 Game?
Grand Theft Auto is a series of open-world games where you play criminals in satirical versions of American places. The new Grand Theft Auto VI is the first mainline entry since GTA V in 2013. It's set in the state of Leonida, centred on Vice City, and follows Jason and Lucia after a job goes wrong.
"Open world" means the map is yours to explore. Missions push the story forward, but between them you can drive anywhere, try activities or just take in the city.
What Do You Actually Do in GTA 6?
- Story missions: Robberies, chases and set pieces that move Jason and Lucia's story forward.
- Driving and exploring: Cars, bikes and boats across six regions, from Vice City to the Leonida Keys.
- Activities: Rockstar's Extended Look showed scuba diving, jet skiing, basketball, dirt biking, weightlifting and street racing.
- Customising: An outfit wheel lets you change clothes and accessories on the fly.
- Dealing with police: Commit crimes and the police respond. Escaping is a big part of the game.
Is GTA 6 Suitable for Everyone?
No. Grand Theft Auto games contain strong violence, crime, drug references, sexual content and bad language, and past entries have carried adult ratings such as PEGI 18 and ESRB Mature. Check the official rating in your region on the store page before buying GTA 6 for someone else. Consoles have parental controls if you share a system with younger players.
What Do You Need to Play?
- A PS5 or Xbox Series X|S. It isn't on PS4, Xbox One, PC or mobile.
- A copy of the game: $79.99 Standard or $99.99 Ultimate.
- Storage space. The size isn't announced, so clear at least 150 GB.
- An internet connection for the download. Boxed copies contain a code, not a disc.
Full steps are in our how to play GTA 6 guide.
Tips for Your First Few Hours
- Follow the story missions first. They introduce the controls and systems gradually.
- Don't worry about doing everything. GTA worlds are huge, and there's no rush.
- Learn the map. Our interactive map shows Leonida's six regions before you start.
- Save regularly and check the settings menu for difficulty-related options like aim assist.
- Keep a short list of places you want to see. Our checklist helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to play earlier GTA games before GTA 6?
No. GTA 6 has a new story and characters.
Is GTA 6 single-player?
Yes. Store listings describe it as a single-player experience at launch. Online timing hasn't been announced.
Is GTA 6 hard for beginners?
Early missions teach the basics, and you can explore at your own pace.
How long is GTA 6?
Rockstar hasn't given an official length. Previews describe a long, chaptered campaign.
What age is GTA 6 for?
Check the official rating in your region. Previous GTA games were rated for adults.