What appears to be genuine gameplay footage and a map for Grand Theft Auto 6 have leaked online. The footage, showing elements like a six-star Wanted gauge and a stamina meter, has led many to believe in its authenticity, though the build's age remains unclear. The alleged map depicts the game's playable world of Leonida, divided into five counties, with Vice Dale County, the location of Vice City, appearing the most detailed.
The group identifying itself as CyberLeek claims responsibility for the leaks, stating their actions are in protest of "Gamers' Rights" and the industry's shift towards digital-only releases, noting that Grand Theft Auto 6's physical edition includes only a code in a box. CyberLeek reportedly made three demands concerning the future of digital games to Rockstar and other publishers. They also cited dissatisfaction with "fake" single-player downloadable content, likely referring to exclusive in-game items available in the Grand Theft Auto 6 Ultimate Edition.
Reports suggest CyberLeek's manifesto included a warning: "Publishers should beware. If CyberLeek can reach Rockstar, no one is safe. This is a message to all big corpo: behave, or be the next target." However, a QR code present in the leaked footage points to a cryptocurrency donation address, raising questions about the leaker's true motives and potential for a scam.
Neither Rockstar nor its parent company Take-Two Interactive has officially commented on the leaks. Efforts to remove instances of the leaked content from the internet suggest active measures are being taken by the game's publisher. The alleged leaks surface just days before the premiere of Grand Theft Auto 6's second official trailer, titled "An Extended Look," scheduled to air next Thursday, the 27th, at 8 p.m. BST.