In an interview with IGN, relayed by PC Gamer, Dan Houser confirmed without ambiguity his absence: “It is not a story that I have written or a set of characters that I developed, but I think it will be exciting. The game will be great, I am sure.” And to add: “It will be a great privilege to have worked on something so huge.” “I wrote the last 10 or 11 [GTA]. I think the world has probably had enough GTA on my part. “
His words confirm that Rockstar is entering a new era. Without him at the head of the writing, the studio will have to prove that his narration can remain up to par, this time carried by other feathers like Michael Unsworthalready credited on several major titles.
Fans shared between nostalgia and confidence
On Reddit, the reactions are contrasted. Some regret this absence: “It was a little expected but, at the same time, knowing that it left in 2020 and that the scenario was probably written in 2019, it is a little sad to officially know that it is the first GTA without any of its contributions. At least Michael Unsworth has credits on VI.”
Others put it into perspective: “I think the idea that Houser was the only reason why Rockstar came out of the games of this caliber is an insult to all the developers who worked hard to make these games incredible.” “Dan has never been the only screenwriter. And everyone panicked when Leslie left, until we saw what followed.”
The start of Leslie Benziesformer producer at Rockstar, had also aroused concern in his time. Since then, he has been working on the Mindseye project, still eagerly awaited.
Can Rockstar succeed without its historical voice?
This departure raises a strategic question: Can Rockstar remain Rockstar without Dan Houser? The narration has always been a pillar of its productions, from Red Dead Redemption to Bully, passing through GTA V. Losing this singular voice is running the risk of a different tone, from a break in the very spirit of the franchise.
But Rockstar remains a collective studio. And so far, all that the public has seen from GTA 6-its first trailers, its technical promises-reassures. Nothing indicates for the moment a weakening of the universe. The wait, it only grows.