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Rockstar Games has shared fresh details about GTA 6's Miami-inspired setting, explaining how developers approach portraying American culture. In a November 11 interview with The Guardian, Rockstar North co-studio head Rob Nelson discussed Vice City's creation and the team's extensive research.
He explained how the developers combine real-world experiences with Rockstar's exaggerated portrayal of America.
Nelson also addressed whether future Grand Theft Auto games could explore international locations beyond the United States. He kept that possibility open but emphasized that America still offers plenty of unexplored creative opportunities. "Never say never, but there's still so much to do in America," Nelson stated.
Nelson also discussed how Rockstar's largely international workforce approaches its satirical portrayal of American society.
Nelson believes the fictional America presented throughout the franchise remains unfamiliar to everyone, regardless of their background. "I think we're all outsiders to this version of America," he explained during the interview.
Rockstar's approach involves extensive field research rather than relying entirely on photographs or existing geographical references. According to The Guardian, developers began visiting Miami in 2015 to understand its atmosphere and communities. Their research covered neighborhoods, nightlife, racetracks and locations throughout the Florida Keys.
Nelson even recalled spending time at a Miami nightclub until 4 AM during one research trip. The team visited a racetrack hours later, exposing developers to another aspect of Florida's culture. Developers also joined police officers during patrols around South Beach to understand local environments.
These experiences helped shape Vice City and Leonida, GTA 6's fictional interpretation of Florida. The game combines recognizable locations with fictional communities, distinctive characters and Rockstar's familiar social commentary. Its detailed environment also reflects the studio's interest in portraying everyday activities and smaller environmental details.
Meanwhile, Nelson's comments offer no confirmation about GTA 7 or its potential international setting. Rockstar has not announced another mainline installment or revealed plans for its next destination. For now, the studio appears focused on expanding its interpretation of America through GTA 6.
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