Game Informer put GTA VI on its cover with an issue dated September 2026 and out on September 29. It includes interviews with Rockstar and about a dozen new screenshots. Below is a plain summary, mostly through GameSpot's October 5 roundup. We paraphrase, and facts are as reported.
Key takeaways
- The map is reported to be about twice the size of GTA V's.
- Six regions are named.
- Weather is dynamic and local, and hurricanes exist.
- More than 170 animal species are in the game.
Story start
You begin as Jason in Leonida Quays, while Lucia is still in prison. The two plan a simple job to improve their lives, it goes wrong, and a bigger mystery opens up across Leonida. Lucia is described as coming from Liberty City.
Map and regions
Leonida is said to be Rockstar's biggest world "by some degree". The six areas are Vice City, Leonida Quays, Grassrivers, Port Gellhorn, Ambrosia and Mount Kalaga National Park. More in our locations guide.
Weather and wildlife
Storms can hit one place while the sky stays clear elsewhere. Rain leaves puddles and wet roads, rainbows can appear, and wind moves clothes, hair and water. Hurricanes are a separate event, and Rockstar has not explained how they affect play. The game has over 170 species, including about 60 birds and over 30 land mammals. Manatees, flamingos and alligators were named. See weather and wildlife.
Why it matters
Before this issue, most of what we knew came from two trailers. The cover story added scale, systems and numbers, but it did not show a full mission or confirm an online mode. Treat it as a good picture of the world, not of the whole game.
Activities and people
- Base jumping, billiards, gym, kayaking, racing, zoo, airboating, jet-skiing and mini-golf.
- A rideshare app called RydeMe, where you can ride with NPCs who chat.
- The most varied NPCs in the series, with looks that depend on the area.
Next steps
Read map size and regions and visit the GTA 6 hub.
