Grand Theft Auto 6 could evolve into a massively multiplayer online role-playing game according to industry veteran Rich Vogel, who told Wccftech the game's planned features align with MMORPG design patterns. Vogel, whose career includes work on Ultima Online and Star Wars: The Old Republic, said many of GTA 6's rumored features belong to the genre.
Rockstar's November 2026 release target follows two delays this year, pushing the game from its original fall 2025 window to May 2026, then to November 19, 2026. Former Rockstar animator Mike York told Esports Insider the studio cannot afford further postponements, warning that additional delays would kill fan enthusiasm.
Analysts predict GTA 6's standard edition will cost between $70 and $80, with deluxe versions potentially reaching $100 or more according to GameSpot. Video Game Insights analyst Vic Bassey said the unprecedented hype justifies a price increase, though crossing the $100 threshold might be too aggressive for the base game.
The MMORPG speculation builds on Rockstar's 2023 acquisition of FiveM maker Cfx.re, whose community-driven GTA 5 modification introduced persistent servers and roleplaying mechanics. FiveM at one point surpassed regular GTA 5 Online player counts on Steam, demonstrating demand for more immersive online experiences.
Steam's annual recap feature poked fun at the delays with a note reading "Our flight to Vice City got delayed," referencing the game's Miami-inspired setting. The platform's humor highlights the gaming community's frustration with the extended wait for Rockstar's next title.
Former developer York emphasized that November 2026 represents Rockstar's final deadline, even if the game doesn't meet the studio's famously high standards. He told indy100 the holiday season timing provides optimal sales conditions, giving players time to purchase before Christmas.
GTA 6's online evolution would continue the trajectory established by GTA 5 Online, which became a persistent revenue stream that overshadowed single-player DLC development. The game's online component generated billions through microtransactions, establishing a model other publishers have since emulated.
Industry analysts note that while GTA 6's online mode likely won't resemble traditional MMORPGs like World of Warcraft, it could incorporate persistent world elements and larger player counts. The speculation emerges as Western publishers show reluctance to invest in new MMORPG development despite proven audience demand.
Rockstar faces pressure to deliver after reporting difficult working conditions and union-busting allegations earlier this year. The studio's statement last month cited additional polish time as the reason for the November 2026 delay, promising the final product will meet fan expectations.
PC players face the longest wait, with GTA 6 expected to arrive on consoles first followed by a PC release potentially 12-24 months later based on Rockstar's historical patterns. This staggered launch approach mirrors the company's strategy with previous Grand Theft Auto titles.
The gaming community continues speculating about story structure, with Reddit discussions suggesting chapter-based progression based on trailer footage showing protagonists Jason and Lucia in different locations and time periods. These theories remain unconfirmed by Rockstar.
GTA 6's development represents one of the most anticipated projects in gaming history, building on GTA 5's status as one of the best-selling games of all time. The title's eventual release will test whether Rockstar can maintain its industry dominance amid evolving player expectations and market conditions.
