What GTA 6 Should Bring from RDR2 and Past Games to Become Rockstar’s Biggest Open-World Experience

Grand Theft Auto (GTA) and Red Dead Redemption (RDR) are two of Rockstar Games' flagship franchises, each setting new benchmarks for open-world gaming. With GTA 6 on the horizon, Rockstar has a chance to combine the best elements from Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) and earlier GTA titles to create the most ambitious and immersive open-world experience yet.

Here’s a deep dive into what Rockstar should borrow from RDR2 and its own GTA legacy to make GTA 6 the ultimate open-world game.

1. Hyper-Realism from Red Dead Redemption 2

Detailed World Building

RDR2’s open world is a living, breathing masterpiece. Every detail feels intentional, from the way animals interact with their environment to the changing weather and dynamic NPC behaviors. GTA 6 can adopt:

• Ecosystem Depth: Wildlife integrated into urban and rural areas, adapting to player interactions.

• Realistic Weather: Dynamic weather systems like hurricanes or heatwaves that influence gameplay.

NPC Interactions

RDR2 brought NPC interactions to a whole new level, allowing players to have meaningful conversations or provoke reactions. For GTA 6:

• Personalized NPC Responses: Store clerks, pedestrians, and even police officers reacting dynamically to player actions.

• Life Simulation: NPCs with day-to-day routines, making the world feel alive beyond the main story.

Immersive Animations

The animation detail in RDR2—from skinning animals to weapon reloading—is unparalleled. If GTA 6 integrates such attention to detail, players could experience:

• Seamless vehicle entry and exit animations.

• Realistic interactions with objects like ATMs, vending machines, or gas pumps.

2. The Iconic Chaos of Past GTA Games

Over-the-Top Action

GTA has always embraced chaos, from rampaging with a tank in GTA: San Andreas to parachuting off skyscrapers in GTA V. To stay true to its roots, GTA 6 should amplify:

• Insane Weaponry: Unique tools like jetpacks, futuristic gadgets, and absurd melee weapons.

• Destruction Mechanics: Advanced physics for more satisfying car crashes, explosions, and environmental damage.

Wacky Side Missions

One of the best features of earlier GTA titles were the side activities, like street races or vigilante missions. GTA 6 could include:

• Evolving Side Missions: Activities like running a nightclub or car theft rings that evolve over time.

• Mini-Games: Poker from RDR2 or arcade games from GTA Online, expanded with more variety.

3. Deeper Role-Playing Elements from RDR2

Customization

RDR2’s attention to detail in player customization—from Arthur’s beard growth to outfits—was groundbreaking. GTA 6 could expand this with:

• Lifestyle Choices: Players choosing to live as criminals, business moguls, or underground racers.

• Dynamic Appearance Changes: Hair growth, tattoos, and weight changes based on player habits.

Camp or Base Management

In RDR2, players managed Arthur’s camp, making it feel personal. GTA 6 could introduce:

• Player-Owned Hideouts: Fully customizable homes, warehouses, or secret lairs.

• Community Dynamics: Building relationships with NPC allies or crew members who influence missions.

4. Expansive Storytelling from RDR2 and GTA V

Emotional Depth

The emotional storytelling in RDR2 resonated with players, making them deeply care about Arthur’s journey. GTA 6 can implement:

• Relatable Characters: Multi-dimensional protagonists with personal struggles.

• Moral Choices: Decisions that shape the narrative and lead to multiple endings.

Heist Mechanics

GTA V introduced heists as major missions, but GTA 6 could refine them with inspiration from RDR2:

• Dynamic Planning: Players deciding on the approach, crew members, and backup plans.

• Unexpected Twists: Missions that adapt in real-time based on player decisions.

5. Next-Level Exploration and Freedom

Interactive Environment

Rockstar has always excelled at creating open worlds, but RDR2’s interactive elements set a new standard. GTA 6 could expand on:

• Playable Locations: Bars, gyms, casinos, and more places for players to explore and interact.

• Dynamic Events: Randomized encounters like protests, accidents, or celebrity sightings.

Fast Travel Options

While RDR2 encouraged immersion with minimal fast travel, GTA 6 could strike a balance with:

• Realistic Transit Systems: Subways, taxis, and ride-sharing apps.

• Player-Owned Vehicles: Customizable cars, boats, and planes for quick travel.

6. Online Innovations from GTA Online and RDR2

Persistent Online World

Building on the success of GTA Online, GTA 6’s multiplayer could feature:

• Shared World Impact: Player actions influencing the online world, like businesses opening or closing.

• Seasonal Updates: Timed events and expansions to keep the experience fresh.

Role-Playing Servers

GTA Online’s RP servers have exploded in popularity. Rockstar could officially support this by introducing:

• Dedicated RP Modes: Custom tools for role-players to create unique experiences.

• Player Economies: A fully functional in-game economy with trade, real estate, and black markets.

7. Technological Advancements for Next-Gen Consoles

Seamless World Transitions

Thanks to the PS5 and Xbox Series X, GTA 6 can eliminate loading screens entirely. Players should seamlessly transition between interiors, exteriors, and cutscenes.

AI and Physics Improvements

Advanced AI could make NPCs smarter, while improved physics would make every crash, shootout, and chase feel more realistic.

8. Nostalgia from Earlier GTA Titles

Returning Characters and Locations

Rockstar has a rich history of iconic characters and cities. GTA 6 could feature:

• Cameos: Appearances by fan-favorites like CJ, Tommy Vercetti, or Trevor.

• Revamped Locations: Modernized versions of Vice City, Liberty City, or San Fierro.

Classic Radio Stations

Music is a huge part of GTA’s identity. GTA 6 should bring back fan-favorite stations while adding fresh tracks to reflect modern tastes.