Ex-Rockstar Dev Halts GTA 6 Trailers: 'Hype is Sufficient'

As the anticipation for Grand Theft Auto 6 continues to build following the release of Trailer 1 in December 2023, a former Rockstar developer, Obbe Vermeij, has suggested that no more trailers should be released before the game's launch. Vermeij, who served as a technical director on the series up until Grand Theft Auto 4 in 2008, believes that the existing hype around GTA 6 is sufficient and that withholding additional trailers could enhance the excitement at the game's release.

Rockstar released GTA 6 Trailer 1 to record-breaking viewership in December 2023, but since then, no further assets have been released. This prolonged wait has led to a frenzy of conspiracy theories among fans, with some attempting to decode everything from the number of holes in Lucia’s cell door net and the bullet holes in the car from Trailer 1 to registration plates. One particularly popular theory involved the so-called "moon watch," which, although accurately predicted the announcement date for Trailer 1, was debunked as a hint at the release date for Trailer 2.

Despite Vermeij's stance, the naming of the first trailer as GTA 6 Trailer 1 implies that more trailers might follow. However, plans can shift, and Rockstar may prefer to concentrate on finalizing GTA 6 rather than producing trailers that would be scrutinized intensely by the community.

Vermeij also shared insights into Rockstar's past, mentioning that GTA 4 was delayed in July 2007, just months before its planned October release. He suggested that a similar "decision day" for GTA 6 might occur around the time of Take-Two’s August earnings report.

99 Details in the GTA 6 Trailer - Slideshow

View 51 ImagesIn an interview with Bloomberg in March, Zelnick discussed the secrecy surrounding GTA 6’s release date, emphasizing the unprecedented anticipation for the game. He explained that Rockstar prefers to release marketing materials closer to the release window to balance excitement with unmet anticipation, a strategy they believe works better than announcing release schedules years in advance.

Mike York, a former Rockstar animator who contributed to Grand Theft Auto 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, suggested on his YouTube channel that Rockstar is deliberately stoking conspiracy theories and speculation by maintaining silence about GTA 6 and the release of Trailer 2. York believes this approach fosters community engagement and mystery, which in turn boosts interest in the game.

Zelnick’s comments suggest that GTA 6 Trailer 2, if it is to be released, may not appear until much closer to the game's fall 2025 release, assuming no delays. As fans eagerly await further news, they can explore IGN's coverage on topics like an ex-Rockstar dev's thoughts on potential delays, Zelnick’s views on the future of GTA Online post-GTA 6, and expert opinions on whether the PS5 Pro will be able to run GTA 6 at 60 frames per second.