Rockstar Games has signaled that its highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6 will likely leave out some of Florida’s most iconic real-world attractions, including a Disney World-style theme park, SeaWorld, and Universal Studios, as the studio refines its fictionalized version of the Sunshine State. Speaking to Game Informer as part of a recent cover story on the game, Rockstar’s senior vice president of environment art, Paul MacPherson, indicated that the developer’s fictional rendition of Florida, known as Leonida, will not feature every landmark players might expect from the real state.
The comments emerged during an interview in which Game Informer asked MacPherson how the studio planned to integrate major attractions into the game world. According to MacPherson, Rockstar has had to be selective about which locations make the cut, prioritizing narrative cohesion and game design over a comprehensive recreation of Florida’s tourist staples. The studio, he said, remains committed to capturing the essence of the state even without replicating its most famous sites.
Distilling the Florida Experience
MacPherson explained that the process of selecting which landmarks to include involves careful evaluation of the game world’s diversity. “We have to constantly evaluate the diversity of landscapes, towns, structures, landmarks, vistas, plant species, rock formations and everything else before we work with design and narrative to distill a list down that best works with and serves the game’s needs,” he said. “So, while we may not have those exact locations, everything we have is geared to getting that full Florida experience!”
The statement does not rule out the inclusion of any specific locations, but it does suggest that players should not expect every major attraction to appear in the game. Rockstar’s approach appears to favor a curated experience over exhaustive replication, a decision that reflects the practical constraints of building a vast open-world environment.
“We have to constantly evaluate the diversity of landscapes, towns, structures, landmarks, vistas, plant species, rock formations and everything else before we work with design and narrative to distill a list down that best works with and serves the game’s needs. So, while we may not have those exact locations, everything we have is geared to getting that full Florida experience!”
Paul MacPherson, Senior Vice President of Environment Art, Rockstar Games
The decision to omit major theme parks echoes observations about Grand Theft Auto 5, which allowed players to explore the Venice Beach Boardwalk, complete with a pier, rollercoaster, and ferris wheel. While these offerings provided some variety, they were generally not considered a major draw, and there was little reason to revisit them. Building an entire park around such features may not represent the most efficient use of development resources, a consideration that likely influenced Rockstar’s approach to GTA 6.
Wildlife and Research Take Center Stage
While theme parks may be absent, the game will still offer plenty to explore, including a zoo. Animals are a significant component of GTA 6, with the game featuring over 170 different species, including rare and legendary breeds that players can study. This emphasis on wildlife suggests that Rockstar is investing heavily in creating immersive, detailed environments that reward exploration, even in the absence of traditional attractions.
Rockstar has also dedicated considerable time to researching Florida, living in the area to capture its authentic character. The studio confirmed that its research process included visits to strip clubs and nightclubs, among other locations, as it sought to understand the state’s diverse culture and nightlife. This hands-on approach underscores the studio’s commitment to creating a believable and engaging world.
Looking Ahead
As players await the release of GTA 6, Rockstar’s comments provide valuable insight into the studio’s design philosophy and the choices shaping its fictional Florida. While the absence of certain attractions may disappoint some, the emphasis on wildlife, detailed environments, and authentic research suggests that the game will offer a rich and immersive experience. Fans can expect more details as Rockstar continues to showcase the game in the lead-up to its launch.
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