With the release of Grand Theft Auto VI on the horizon, millions of gamers across the world will be looking forward to venturing into Vice City for the first time in years. But not everyone will be able to play the game.
Following multiple delays, it now looks set in stone that GTA VI will stick to its current release date of November 19 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. We’re still waiting on Rockstar Games to officially announce the inevitable PC port. We’ll update you once that announcement is made.
Hopefully, we’ve not just cursed the release date. That being said, for the most part, gamers across the world will be able to play the next entry in the Grand Theft Auto series. This is despite some gamers in Australia having restricted access due to age verification checks.
Has GTA VI Been Banned in Any Countries?
At this time, it seems that no country has banned GTA VI yet, but we do have another four months until release, so a lot can change. Over the years, whether it’s related to graphic violence and/or sexual content, the Grand Theft Auto series has a history of being banned in many countries.
1. Russia
Status: Effectively banned
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, numerous game publishers and developers, including Take-Two Interactive, halted digital sales of their games in Russia. Both Sony and Microsoft have also suspended sales of their consoles and games in the country.
As GTA VI is digital-only, gamers in Russia are effectively locked out, as Xbox and PlayStation have suspended sales in the region. If the game is eventually released physically with discs, it remains to be seen if they will make it into the country. For now, Rockstar’s games are inaccessible via official channels in Russia.
2. China
Status: Highly likely to be banned
China has a long history of banning video games with extreme violence, depictions of sex, and sensitive political content. The Chinese government has also required games to undergo rigorous content vetting. With GTA 6 expected to feature all of the series’ signature violence and adult themes, it seems highly unlikely it will pass censorship.
Gamers in China who wish to play GTA 6 may need to rely on imported physical copies or digital workarounds, both of which face significant hurdles.
3. Taiwan
Status: Potential restrictions
Taiwan has previously banned GTA V, and similar restrictions could apply to GTA VI. Rockstar has not yet confirmed whether the game will be available in the region, but given the history, it could face the same fate.
4. Qatar
Status: Potential restrictions
Qatar has a complex history with video games, with some titles being banned or heavily censored. The depiction of alcohol, drugs, and sexual content often triggers restrictions in the region. Given that GTA VI is almost certain to feature all three, it may face a ban.
5. Kuwait
Status: Potential restrictions
Kuwait has previously banned the sale and distribution of Grand Theft Auto V. The decision came after the game’s content was deemed “harmful to society.” With GTA VI expected to push the boundaries even further, it’s likely that the game could face the same fate.
Other Potential Bans
Saudi Arabia
GTA V was once banned in Saudi Arabia before the ban was lifted in 2025. As of right now, GTA 6 will be releasing in the country known as “The Heart of Arabia.”
Australia
Australia’s new online safety laws require mandatory age verification for R18+ content. While not a ban, this could restrict access for players who are unwilling to provide their ID.
The Core Controversy
While the GTA series has always faced scrutiny for its violence, the real point of contention in many of these regions is likely to be the game’s alleged depictions of LGBTQ+ characters. The presence of LGBTQ+ themes in media has often been heavily targeted by censorship in Russia and several Middle Eastern countries.
Also, Read
- GTA 6 Will Be Unplayable To Millions Unless You Prove One Bizarre Criteria
- GTA 6 Achieves the Impossible, It’s Already Boring Gamers
- GTA 6’s Day and Night Cycle Is Dividing Fans Who Want Realism
Where GTA VI Will Be Available
We know that GTA VI will be available in the UK, across the rest of Europe, as well as the USA, Canada, the UAE, and Australia, to name a few.
Grand Theft Auto VI will be released on 19 November 2026 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. The PC port has yet to be announced.