5 themes from older GTA games that GTA 6 could modernize

The GTA VI Trailer 2 dropped on May 6, 2025, just days after the game's development delay was confirmed. But despite the wait, fans are more hyped than ever. With Vice City making a grand return and Rockstar teasing deep social commentary once again, one question lingers—which classic GTA themes could Rockstar revamp for the modern era? Here are 5 old-school GTA themes that GTA 6 could upgrade for a new era.

1. The American Dream (GTA IV)

Niko Bellic’s pursuit of the American Dream in GTA IV was one of the franchise’s most grounded story arcs. His journey exposed the myth of success in a corrupt system. In GTA 6, Rockstar could take this theme further, exploring how today’s American Dream is warped by social media, influencer culture, and crypto-fueled illusions of success. Imagine a character chasing wealth and status through Instagram likes and tech scams, only to crash into the same disillusionment Niko faced.

2. Gang Culture and Loyalty (GTA: San Andreas)

GTA: San Andreas gave us unforgettable narratives around gang loyalty and betrayal. In GTA VI, this could evolve into modern crime syndicates, social-media-fueled turf wars, and even politically charged activist groups. With Lucia and Jason operating as a duo, loyalty might once again take center stage, with brutal consequences.

3. Weird America (GTA V)

From alien conspiracies to doomsday cults, GTA loves its oddballs. Now throw in crypto bros, AI start-ups in swamps, Flat Earthers, and "Florida Man" headlines, and GTA 6 has the ultimate playground.

Rockstar could go all-in on modern absurdity—and it would still feel grounded in today's America.

4. Identity and Dual Lives (GTA V)

Michael lived a double life as a retired criminal and family man. Trevor was chaos personified. Franklin wanted legitimacy but was stuck in the underworld. These identity struggles remain relevant, but GTA 6 could take it further. Think characters juggling criminality with social media personas, or navigating identity in a polarized world. How far can you live a lie before it breaks you?

5. Party Scenes Rebooted (GTA: Vice City)

The neon-lit nightlife of 1980s Vice City was iconic. Now, imagine that reimagined with modern music festivals, TikTok dance challenges, underground raves, and the influencer club culture of Miami. GTA VI could blend that vibrant energy with dark undertones of crime, drugs, and identity crisis in the social media age.Rockstar knows how to reflect society's madness through chaos, crime, and comedy. With GTA VI, they're not just modernizing gameplay—they’re updating the cultural mirror. And we can’t wait to see what stares back.