Phantom Vice Auto, an early access game developed by Turkey-based Brgames Interactive, is slated for release on Steam on November 19. This date coincides with the launch of Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto 6 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Rockstar Games has stated its decision to forgo a PC release for Grand Theft Auto 6 at launch is to focus on its core audience and fixed hardware specifications, though concerns about software piracy may also be a factor.
Despite the monumental competition, Brgames Interactive is proceeding with its release. The game, as shown in its trailer, features driving mechanics with at least four vehicle types and shooting with five different weapons. Pedestrian interaction and parkour animations are also visible elements. While the trailer is over a year old, the developer hopes to have expanded the game with features such as a story and missions.
The Steam store page for Phantom Vice Auto lists three playable protagonists, described as "a street-smart hustler, a disgraced former agent, and a cold-blooded mercenary," in a style reminiscent of Grand Theft Auto 5. The page also advertises a 32-player standalone Phantom Vice Online mode. However, these claims should be viewed with some skepticism, as the store page refers to the game as being "upgraded for a new generation," suggesting a remaster rather than a new early access project that Brgames Interactive reportedly began developing in 2024.
The developer, consisting of approximately three individuals according to their website, is launching an early-access title against what is expected to be the largest entertainment release of all time. This move has been described as brave, especially given that many other publishers and developers are actively avoiding releases in the six weeks surrounding Grand Theft Auto 6's launch.
While games that heavily emulate popular titles can be seen as a detriment to the industry, Phantom Vice Auto's amateurish presentation and its stark contrast in scale and budget to Grand Theft Auto 6 present a unique context. The disparity between a small independent team from Turkey and the colossal production of Rockstar Games may invite some level of support for the underdog.