Rockstar Games is introducing significant changes to the driving and car-jacking mechanics in Grand Theft Auto 6, aiming for a more challenging and realistic experience. Rob Nelson, co-studio head at Rockstar North, detailed these shifts in a recent interview, highlighting how narrower, more realistic street scales and increased traffic density will necessitate greater driving skill.
Beyond enhanced driving, the process of acquiring vehicles has also been made more nuanced. Previously, players could instantly hotwire and steal any car by pressing a single button. This simplified approach has been revised to incorporate more progression and player decision-making. Certain parked vehicles will now be inaccessible until players advance further in the story and obtain specific tools.
While direct theft of parked cars is now more involved, the option to carjack drivers on the street remains. Nelson stated that these changes are intended to give vehicles more meaning and require players to be more attentive to their actions. The game will also feature an advanced GPS tracking system for high-end stolen vehicles. Additionally, protagonists Jason and Lucia possess a new scanner app on their in-game phones, which can assist in determining the methods required to steal different car models. Exotic cars, for instance, may feature electronic locks necessitating a key cloner for entry, indicating that distinct approaches will be required for various makes and models.