Rockstar Games co-founder says GTA would not work if set outside the US

Since its inception in 1997, the Grand Theft Auto franchise has left a significant imprint on popular culture, captivating audiences with its immersive open-world gameplay. Typically, these games have taken place within the United States, featuring iconic fictional cities such as Liberty City, Vice City, and Los Santos. The notable exception was a foray into London back in 1999. In a recent podcast with Lex Fridman, Dan Houser, co-founder of Rockstar Games, elaborated on why the company has not revisited a London-like setting. He acknowledged the inherent challenges of adapting the game to a non-American context. "We created a little project in London 26 years ago, GTA London, for the original PlayStation. It was a charming experiment but not comparable to a full GTA game," Houser shared. He explained that much of the franchise's identity is rooted in American culture, making it difficult to replicate that essence elsewhere. After leaving Rockstar Games in 2020, Houser launched a new studio called Absurd Ventures, but the spotlight remains on Rockstar as they develop the eagerly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI. GTA VI is set to return to the fictional Vice City and will feature a dynamic duo, Lucia and Jason, reminiscent of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. The game has already released two teasers and is slated for launch on May 26, 2026, following several delays. Players will have the ability to alternate between the two protagonists during gameplay, enhancing the interactive experience. After a more than ten-year hiatus since the last installment, the excitement for GTA VI is palpable among fans. Rumors suggest it may be the longest game in the series, potentially taking up to 75 hours to complete. Furthermore, the game is expected to satirize aspects of 2020s American culture, including social media and influencer phenomena. Initially, GTA VI will be available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, PS5 Slim, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S, with a PC version to follow at a later date.