Scheduled to be released on November 19, 2026, Grand Theft Auto 6 is already being talked about for something other than its graphics or its game mechanics. It is its content, deemed “immoral”, which is at the heart of the discussions. In Russia in particular, voices are being raised to demand a ban on the game if certain elements are not modified.
What is Rockstar accused of? A freedom of action perceived as excessive, encouraging players to commit virtual crimes without consequences. In a country where public morality is strictly regulated, certain passages in the trailer – notably robberies and scenes of debauchery – were enough to create controversy.
Lucia and Jason: two heroes without morals… and that’s intentional
The game’s protagonists, Lucia and Jason, are nothing exemplary. From the first trailer, Lucia appears in inmate outfit. Jason accompanies him in a convenience store robbery in broad daylight. These elements leave little room for doubt: GTA 6 continues in the amoral vein of the series, by putting antiheroes at the center who are both charismatic and problematic.
But that’s precisely what the fans want. Playing an imperfect, sometimes monstrous character allows you to explore an open world without moral constraints. And for Rockstar, this aspect is an integral part of the franchise’s DNA.
Rockstar has no plans to change its recipe
Red Dead Redemption 2, praised for its deep story, already offered significant freedom. But GTA 6 goes further: contemporary world, social satire, possibilities for unbridled interactions… The player is free to behave as he wishes.
And despite the criticism, Rockstar seems determined to take responsibility for its choices. No content removal has been announced. The classification of the game is still pending, but everything suggests that it will be as strict as possible (not recommended for under 17s). Russia is not the only country to question the limits of this freedom.
Immoral gameplay, a fantasy engine for fans
Online, the controversy especially increases impatience. For many, the more GTA 6 shocks, the more it promises to be faithful to the Rockstar experience. Freedom of action, assumed provocations, borderline characters: so many elements which have always made the series successful.
The developers know it: virtual immorality is a form of catharsis. And as its release approaches, GTA 6 is shaping up to be a video game monster that will divide… but will leave no one indifferent.