Rockstar Games undertook extensive research trips across Florida, involving interactions with a diverse range of individuals including gang members and police officers, to authentically capture the essence of the state for Grand Theft Auto 6. These expeditions were crucial in understanding the cultural nuances and varied landscapes that would form the game's setting.
According to Aaron Garbut, head of development, these research trips are fundamental to the studio's creative process. Initial excursions involve a small group scouting locations and gathering ideas, with subsequent trips bringing in more team members to delve deeper into the local culture and stories. Garbut described early stages of this process as a car full of friends driving for days, discussing their vision while immersed in the environment.
During these trips, developers documented everything through photos and videos. One notable experience involved flying low over Everglades inlets and later hovering above a stadium during a live Beyoncé concert, an event that reportedly made local news. This hands-on approach extended to spending time with locals to gather stories and details, experiencing both the welcoming and the more intimidating aspects of the communities.
Rockstar aims to create a believable and varied world with significant depth, necessitating this thorough research. The developers sought to represent Miami's extremes, from its friendly inhabitants and immense wealth to its stark poverty and vibrant, chaotic energy. Capturing these contrasting elements was key to bringing the game's world to life.
Content such as pedestrian dialogue and radio advertisements are not treated as secondary elements but are considered vital components in building a world players will inhabit for hundreds of hours. Rather than recreating real-world viral moments, which can quickly date a game due to long development cycles, GTA 6's satire focuses on contemporary culture, conspiracy theories, and people's reactions to events.
This meticulous approach to world-building has been a hallmark of Rockstar's development process. The studio has previously shared insights into its creation of Vice City's atmosphere, drawing parallels to the immersive research conducted for the upcoming title.