Grand Theft Auto’s Global Dreams: Why Rockstar Almost Took Us to Tokyo (and Where They Might Go Next)
A recent interview with Gameshub revealed fascinating insights from GTA veteran Obbe Vermeij, former Technical Director at Rockstar Games from 1995 to 2009. Vermeij detailed how the studio seriously considered locations beyond the United States for future Grand Theft Auto installments, hinting at a world of possibilities that never quite materialized.
Beyond Liberty City: Exploring Untapped Locations
For years, fans have speculated about where Rockstar might take the GTA franchise after its established settings. Vermeij confirmed these discussions were very real. The team explored vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro, Moscow, and Istanbul as potential backdrops. However, it was Tokyo that came closest to becoming a reality.
Rockstar Games
The plan involved a Japanese company taking Rockstar’s source code and developing GTA: Tokyo. This approach, while ambitious, ultimately fell through. Vermeij doesn’t disclose the intended developer, leaving fans to speculate.
Why America Remains the Core Setting
Vermeij suggests a key reason for sticking with US-based locations: familiarity. “America is fundamentally the epicenter of Western culture, so everyone knows the cities, even people who haven’t been there. They have a mental image of the cities.” This is a crucial point. The cultural shorthand provided by American cities allows Rockstar to bypass extensive world-building, focusing instead on satire and gameplay.
This isn’t to say other locations are off the table forever. However, the established cultural understanding of US cities provides a significant advantage. Consider the success of games like Cyberpunk 2077, which, despite its futuristic setting, still relies on recognizable urban tropes. A completely unfamiliar setting requires more investment from the player to become immersed.
The Future of GTA: Delays and Development Challenges
While global expansion remains a tantalizing possibility, the immediate future of Grand Theft Auto is firmly rooted in the US. Grand Theft Auto VI, initially slated for release in 2024, has faced multiple delays. Originally pushed to May 2026, it’s now expected to launch on November 19, 2026. These delays highlight the immense pressure and complexity involved in developing a title of this scale.
The gaming industry has seen a trend of delayed releases in recent years, often attributed to increased development complexity, the rise of live-service games requiring ongoing support, and the impact of events like the COVID-19 pandemic. GameSpot reports a significant increase in game delays over the past few years, demonstrating this is a widespread issue.
What Could Future Global Settings Look Like?
If Rockstar does revisit the idea of a non-US setting, what could we expect? A GTA in Rio de Janeiro could offer a vibrant, sun-drenched open world filled with favelas, beaches, and a unique criminal underworld. Moscow could provide a stark contrast, with a focus on organized crime and political intrigue. Istanbul, bridging Europe and Asia, could offer a fascinating blend of cultures and opportunities for diverse gameplay.
However, each location presents unique challenges. Accurate representation, cultural sensitivity, and avoiding stereotypes are paramount. Rockstar’s signature satirical style would need to be carefully adapted to avoid causing offense. The success of a global GTA hinges on respectful and nuanced world-building.
FAQ
- Will we ever see a GTA game outside of the US?
- Why was GTA: Tokyo cancelled?
- What’s causing the delays with GTA VI?
While Obbe Vermeij suggests it’s unlikely due to the familiarity of US cities, it’s not entirely off the table. The studio has clearly considered it in the past.
The exact reason remains unknown. Vermeij didn’t disclose the reason or the intended developer.
Development complexity, the desire for a polished experience, and industry-wide trends are all contributing factors.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Rockstar’s official social media channels and website for the latest updates on GTA VI. Be wary of unofficial sources and rumors.
What city would you like to see Rockstar tackle next? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
