Key Highlights from the GTA 6 Trailer on Netflix

After a long wait for some real gameplay from Grand Theft Auto 6, Rockstar finally dropped a nearly 30-minute trailer, first on Netflix and then made it available elsewhere shortly after. Recent leaks had already hinted at various aspects of the game, from chaotic moments at a nudist colony to a stunning beach scene that matched earlier teasers in quality. This official content allows players to enjoy more than just a brief glimpse before it potentially disappears from the internet. Additionally, Rockstar shared some insights with an outlet about features reminiscent of Leonida from Red Dead Redemption 2, such as how Jason and Lucia’s appearances change based on their eating and exercise habits.

While the trailer didn’t reveal an overwhelming amount, it blended cinematics and gameplay, maintaining the classic Grand Theft Auto vibe. However, there were notable highlights, particularly the evident influence of Red Dead Redemption on GTA 6.

Having been in development for nearly a decade, GTA 6 arrives at a time when real-world events have made previous titles seem mild. It appears Rockstar is steering clear of current events, or at least not emphasizing them before launch. The trailer continues the series’ tradition of satirizing marketing and consumer culture, with a fresh take poking fun at influencer culture. In one scene, Lucia finds herself stuck with a young man filming her escape after a job, making her disdain for him quite clear.

Several segments followed Jason and Lucia as they explored the city without any immediate threats. Rockstar seamlessly switched between the two characters, even during dynamic moments, such as transitioning from Lucia mid-air to Jason driving a car.

However, there are some limitations. Most of the main story missions seem to focus on either Jason or Lucia, without the ability to switch between them. For instance, the opening mission centers on Jason, while a later protection mission features an interlude that shifts back to Lucia.

The key takeaway is that it’s still uncertain whose story is being told—Jason’s or Lucia’s.

The trailer opens with a charming exchange between the couple, indicating they are still getting to know each other. Lucia encourages Jason to communicate openly, while he shares parts of his background to explain his discomfort at times. Both characters appear to be navigating their pasts, but the extent of their knowledge about each other’s histories remains ambiguous.

This ambiguity is intentional. Rockstar aims for players to invest in the relationship between Jason and Lucia, allowing them to either foster romance or keep things platonic.

While there’s no sign of a traditional GTA base, Jason and Lucia can occasionally spend time in their shared home, which is filled with decorations and clothing (Lucia even nudges Jason to improve his wardrobe). Before heading out, players can watch TV or grab a snack from the fridge.

In the trailer’s opening moments, Jason interacts with a guard dog, who responds with an affectionate hug. While it’s unclear if other animals can be interacted with, the hope is that players might even be able to hug a gator.

The fitness system from Red Dead 2 makes a return, along with other familiar elements from Rockstar’s cowboy saga. For example, in one scene, as Lucia attempts to rob a jewelry store, a customer becomes more aggressive than the police, trying to thwart her. Naturally, as a video game protagonist armed with skills and weapons, Lucia manages to fend him off.

GTA 6 opts for a more immersive dialogue system, avoiding traditional dialogue wheels or cluttered screens. Instead, contextual options appear when players are near characters they can interact with, and response choices are displayed subtly at the bottom right of the screen, enhancing the natural flow of conversations.

As expected from a GTA title, the trailer showcased a variety of activities, including scooter rides, beach lounging, sports car racing, dirt biking, and even urban skydiving.

Previous trailers have already highlighted the quirky inhabitants of Vice City, and this latest showcase continued that trend, featuring a mix of characters from tough guys in Boobie’s crew to women in stylish outfits, and even a disheveled older lady taking a hammer to a car. The attention to detail is impressive, with characters displaying a range of body types and meticulously rendered hair.

Rockstar has always focused on physical detail, but GTA 6 seems to surpass even Red Dead 2 in this regard. The environmental detail and lighting effects, especially during explosions, are striking. Observations like club patrons visibly sweating and clothing moving realistically with the wearer make previous titles feel less advanced.

Grand Theft Auto 6 is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X on November 19.