As Rockstar Games undergoes transformative changes, including the recent opening of a brand-new studio in Los Angeles and the departure of several veteran employees, questions are emerging about the impact on its highly-anticipated game, GTA 6.
This wave of change comes at a pivotal time, as the central plot for GTA 6 is either fully developed or close to it. The community has expressed apprehension, particularly regarding the recent departure of Vice President of Writing Micheal Unsworth, a Rockstar stalwart for the last 16 years. Unsworth has played an instrumental role in crafting some of the company’s most successful games, including Red Dead Redemption, Red Dead Redemption 2, LA Noire, Max Payne, and GTA IV & V.
Fortunately for fans, Unsworth’s exit is unlikely to influence GTA 6’s main storyline. “The main storyline for GTA 6 has either already been completed or is very close to completion,” says a source close to the project. However, many are concerned about potential modifications to the game or future downloadable content (DLC). Unsworth has had a significant hand in shaping the dialogue and narratives of the entire GTA series, and his absence could affect the quality of future expansions.
Additionally, questions loom over other Rockstar franchises Unsworth has contributed to, including the Red Dead Redemption series and Max Payne. His role in the company was broad, affecting a long list of game IPs. As he leaves, the company finds itself with fewer seasoned writers, adding another layer of uncertainty.
The ongoing transformation at Rockstar, particularly the loss of experienced staff like Unsworth, has ruffled the GTA 6 community, and possibly beyond. Despite the near completion of GTA 6’s main plot, the changes have planted seeds of doubt about what comes after the official release. Rockstar’s newly minted LA studio may represent a positive step toward future growth, but only time will tell if this reshuffle will serve as a boon or a bane for the company’s beloved franchises.
What are your thoughts on these seismic shifts within Rockstar Games? Will it affect your long-standing love for the GTA series or other Rockstar titles? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below.