Rockstar Games has finally answered whether Grand Theft Auto 6‘s development will use generative AI. In an industry where generative AI is becoming more commonplace to aid development, many GTA 6 fans have wondered whether Rockstar will utilize the controversial technology, with the answer now clear.
GTA 6 Contains No Generative AI Use, Rockstar Confirms
Kinda Funny Games recently made the trip to Edinburgh, Scotland, to visit Rockstar North ahead of GTA 6‘s recent Extended Look. While there, they spoke with co-studio head Rob Nelson and asked about whether GTA 6 used generative AI during its development. Nelson’s response was as straightforward as it gets, leaving no room for interpretation, saying, “No”.
The confirmation came during a preview event where Kinda Funny’s Andy Cortez and Greg Miller interrogated Nelson directly on both the use of generative AI and microtransactions. Nelson also confirmed that there will be “no monetisations” in the single-player game.
“No.” — Rob Nelson, Rockstar North Co-Studio Head
A Fully Handcrafted Experience
The absence of generative AI in GTA 6 is significant in an era where the industry is actively debating the use of these technologies. Titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Arc Raiders have faced criticism after confirming the use of AI in parts of their production.
Rockstar’s commitment to human craftsmanship is evident in the numbers. GTA 6 contains more than 600,000 animations — compared to roughly 55,000 in GTA V and about 300,000 in Red Dead Redemption 2, Rockstar’s last major release.
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has previously echoed similar sentiments, telling GamesIndustry.biz that generative AI has no role in GTA 6‘s development. He emphasized that Rockstar’s worlds are “handcrafted” — building by building, street by street, neighbourhood by neighbourhood.
“Generative AI has zero part in what Rockstar Games is building. Their worlds are handcrafted. That’s what differentiates them.” — Strauss Zelnick, Take-Two CEO
No Microtransactions in Single-Player
When speaking to Kinda Funny Games, Nelson also addressed whether GTA 6 would have microtransactions, confirming that it will not. Players won’t be able to spend real-world money within the single-player game.
It’s great news for fans that Rockstar is looking to avoid these practices, especially since GTA Online‘s microtransactions have been an enormous source of income for the company over the years. However, the studio declined to say anything about a future GTA Online mode.
Important distinction: While there will be no in-game microtransactions, content is gated behind the Ultimate Edition ($99.99, a $20 increase from the $79.99 standard edition). This version grants access to exclusive cosmetic packs, vehicles, weapons, and in-game shops like the Electric Fang tattoo parlor and Stock 305 clothing store. Standard edition owners can purchase an Ultimate Edition upgrade separately.
A Principled Stance in a Divided Industry
The confirmation that GTA 6 avoided generative AI is notable given the industry’s divided stance. Activision kept AI-generated assets in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 even after player criticism. Ubisoft admitted AI-made art slipped into Anno 117: Pax Romana and had to pull it after backlash. CD Projekt Red, maker of The Witcher, has also said its next game will avoid generative AI.
Also, Read
- GTA 6 Takes Red Dead Redemption 2’s Honor System to the Next Level — It’s Not Black and White
- GTA 6 Lucia Prologue Leak Dubbed Cyberleek’s ‘Biggest Leak So Far’
- GTA 6 Brings Back Popular San Andreas Gameplay Feature and 16 Other New Details We Now Know
Ultimately, it makes sense that GTA 6 would avoid generative AI during development. A significant number of gamers are so staunchly anti-AI that they will avoid anything that uses it. GTA 6 is the most obvious slam-dunk success, perhaps ever, and there is no reason to engage in something that is likely to put off many fans.
Grand Theft Auto VI is scheduled to launch on November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.