Few could have predicted how consistently successful the multiplayer elements of Grand Theft Auto V would be for Rockstar Games. More than a decade after its launch, the game continues to generate billions of dollars and remains a cultural touchstone across multiple console generations.
Yet it’s important not to forget just how impactful GTA V’s single-player story was. For many players, that narrative experience was the true defining moment of the game — a cinematic, character-driven crime saga that set a new standard for open-world storytelling.
With Grand Theft Auto VI set for release in May 2026, discussion has naturally shifted toward what fans want most from the next chapter. Surprisingly, the community seems far more united than usual in their expectations.
The story is the key to success
Over on Reddit, one user sparked a debate by asking whether fans were more excited for the new game’s story or its online component. The responses were unusually consistent — the vast majority expressed excitement for the single-player narrative above all else.
“I’m replaying GTA V’s story mode for the first time in years,” one fan wrote. “It still blows me away how good it looks and how strong the writing is. The story feels like a fusion of Heat and The Italian Job. I can’t wait to see what GTA VI delivers.”
Another user echoed the sentiment: “Come on. No one watched the trailers thinking about online. They were all about story mode.”
This doesn’t mean the online features don’t matter — far from it. But history shows the heart of GTA has always been its story. That’s what sets the tone, defines the characters, and anchors the larger world players will eventually explore together online. If GTA VI follows that formula, all signs point to another landmark release.
To Rockstar’s credit, all promotional material so far has focused squarely on the single-player experience. That focus suggests the developers understand that the story must come first — the foundation upon which multiplayer can later thrive.
Ideally, the online mode should launch some time after the main game. That would allow players to experience the narrative as intended, before diving into the sprawling chaos of multiplayer. After all, skipping straight to online play would mean missing the essence of what makes Grand Theft Auto truly great.
