The map in GTA 6 will be substantially larger than that of GTA 5, projected to be approximately double the size. Furthermore, the title will feature an enhanced climate system capable of simulating natural phenomena such as tropical storms and hurricanes. These new details were disclosed by Rockstar Games through a preview published by Game Informer.
The fictional state named Leonida, which is primarily inspired by Florida, will be the largest territory ever created by Rockstar. According to Aaron Garbut, who serves as head of development and co-director of the studio, the game's universe will also include a greater richness of detail, covering interiors, alleys, and spaces located on building rooftops.
Beyond the increase in scale, Rockstar has restructured its meteorological system aiming to make climatic conditions more specific and lasting. This implies that different sections of the map can display entirely distinct weather scenarios simultaneously. In practice, the player might be under clear skies while witnessing a storm occurring nearby.
Owen Shepherd, Rockstar's vice president of art for lighting and rendering, detailed that the system was reformed to be 'much more localized and persistent.' The system will incorporate entirely dynamic clouds that traverse the map, capable of generating everything from heavy rain to lightning storms. During more severe weather, water may flow from poles and rooftops, while lightning illuminates the clouds.
Rockstar has not yet specified the frequency with which extreme events, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, will occur or whether these will have direct impacts on gameplay. The GTA 6 map will be divided into six large regions, each inspired by different locations in Florida: Vice City, Leonida Keys, Grassrivers, Port Gellhorn, Ambrosia, and Mount Kalaga National Park.
Vice City will serve as the main urban hub, receiving strong influence from Miami, while Leonida Keys will represent the archipelago known as the Florida Keys. Grassrivers will be modeled after the Everglades, featuring vast swampy areas and native fauna. Port Gellhorn will have the characteristic of a declining tourist town, and Ambrosia will symbolize the industrial aspect of the state. Finally, Mount Kalaga National Park will be dedicated to nature and wildlife preservation.
The information indicates that GTA 6 will feature over 170 types of animals, including about 60 species of birds, 30 terrestrial mammals, and marine life such as sharks, whales, and jellyfish. The open world will offer various activities, such as diving, kayaking, jet skiing, street and off-road racing, billiards, mini-golf, gym training, and base jumping.
