6 things Rockstar did right in GTA 5 that must return
When
GTA V
dropped in 2013, it didn't just raise the bar, it
became
the bar. From dynamic gameplay to unforgettable characters, Rockstar delivered a near-perfect open-world experience. Now, as we count down to
GTA VI
, one thing's clear: some things from
GTA V
absolutely need to return.
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Here's a quick hit-list of what Rockstar nailed, and why we need more of it.
1. Character Switching
Michael, Franklin, and Trevor - three wildly different personalities, three storylines, and one seamless mechanic to switch between them. This wasn't just a gimmick. It made the story richer, gave missions variety, and let players explore the world from different angles. Rockstar, please don't leave this behind.
How GTA 6 Graphics are SO REALISTIC!
2. A Living, Breathing Open World
Los Santos felt
alive
. Pedestrians had conversations, animals roamed the wild, and random events could trigger anywhere.
It wasn't more than just background, it was part of the game. Whether you were chasing a purse thief or stumbling into a cult, the world responded to you. This kind of immersive sandbox is what makes Rockstar games iconic, and it's non-negotiable for GTA VI.
3. Heists That Made You Think
Heists weren't just about shooting your way through. You had to plan, choose your crew, pick your approach, and deal with the consequences. These multi-layered missions gave players creative freedom and replayability.
Honestly, GTA V's heists felt like mini-games inside the main game. That's gold. Rockstar, bring them back, and make them bigger.
4. Killer Radio Stations & Soundtrack
Music in GTA has always been a vibe, but GTA V perfected it. From flying down the highway with Kendrick blasting to tuning in for hilarious talk shows, the soundtrack shaped the entire feel of the game. Rockstar knows how to mix iconic hits with hidden gems, and we need another banger playlist in GTA VI.
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Period.
All 13 Side Activities In GTA 6! Who's Excited? #fyp #gta6 #grandtheftauto #videogame #news
5. Next-Level Side Activities
Tennis. Yoga. Golf. Stock market trading. Bounty hunting. GTA V blurred the lines between side quests and full-blown games. These weren't throwaway extras, they were legit fun. It made the game feel endless, like there was always something to do. GTA VI shouldn't just bring this back, it should level it up.
6. Online Mode That Grew With Players
Say what you want about GTA Online, but it's a juggernaut. Heists, roleplaying servers, weekly events, business empires.
Rockstar built an entire second life into the game. If GTA VI's online mode learns from this and launches stronger from day one, it could be even more massive.
GTA V wasn't just successful because it was big. It was
smartly
big, packed with details, features, and freedom that made players lose hours without even realizing it. If Rockstar carries forward these six wins into GTA VI, we're not just looking at a good sequel. We're looking at a generational leap.
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