GTA VIThe new details
A bigger Leonida, local storms and new ways to interact. Here’s what Game Informer’s latest report reveals.
Read the breakdownGame Informer spoke with Rockstar about the world and systems behind GTA VI. This is our summary of Marcus Stewart’s report, Welcome to Leonida .
Reported details29 September 2026
Explore Leonida’s
six regions
Rockstar describes Leonida as roughly twice the size of GTA V’s map, with greater density, more interiors and more interaction. The story takes Jason and Lucia across the state.
according to the report
Vice City
Modern Miami is the reference for a rebuilt Vice City. Busy roads, beaches, Art Deco buildings and a cruise port give its districts distinct identities.
Region images from Rockstar’s official GTA VI gallery.
Storms move
across the map.
Rain falls over the distant islands while the foreground remains clear. Rockstar Games / Game Informer.
Local rainfall
One area can remain sunny while a nearby district experiences a storm. Dynamic clouds travel across the world.
Lasting effects
Wet ground and puddles remain after the rain. Wind affects hair, debris, water and vegetation. Rainbows form when lighting conditions allow.
Tropical storms
The report describes hurricanes and intense storms. Their frequency and their effect on missions have not been explained.
Manatees, flamingos, pelicans and alligators are among the animals described. Leonida also includes invasive species such as green iguanas, cane toads and rhesus macaques.
Animals have distinct movement and detailed fur, feathers and materials. Tracking includes Rare, Discoverable and Legendary categories, though Rockstar is keeping those animals’ identities secret.
Jason and Lucia’s
relationship
A partnership you shape
Jason is an army veteran working in the Keys. Lucia comes from Liberty City and has recently left prison. An attempted robbery draws them into a wider criminal conspiracy.
You can switch between them during much of the game. Their partnership remains intact, but optional interactions influence whether they stay friends or become a romantic couple.
Spending time together, answering messages and small gestures strengthen their bond. Romance offers no gameplay advantage over friendship, although the relationship can affect the story.
More variety in the population
NPCs differ in height, build, skin detail, hairstyles and tattoos. Clothing reflects local communities, while a dedicated writing team develops ambient conversations.
Beach image: Rockstar Games / Game Informer. Jason and Lucia image: Rockstar Games.
Six wanted stars
and a new Heat system
Robberies can be carried out alone or together, quickly and loudly or more quietly. Your actions determine whether the police respond and how strongly. Some missions depend on how much money you have.
Three apps
to know about.
WAiNK
Check a vehicle before stealing it
The app identifies security systems and trackers, estimates a vehicle’s resale value and shows the cost of registering it for personal use. Some vehicles require specialised tools.
Activities outside
the missions
The report lists these activities for Jason and Lucia. Some can also be shared to develop their relationship.
BASE jumping
Billiards
Gyms
Kayaking
Mini golf
Scuba diving
Street and off-road racing
Zoos
Airboating
Jet skiing
Beyond the listed activities, the report describes ATV trails, mud parks, night-time demolition derbies, mountain biking, motocross on coastal dunes and bass fishing. Radio stations add licensed songs and new adverts to road trips.
Player decisions can change the story’s direction, while encounters reward exploration. The report does not confirm Orlando-style theme parks or the Space Coast. The author’s hope for a Skunk Ape encounter is speculation, rather than a revealed animal.
Details worth a closer look
Rockstar studied Panama City, Jacksonville, Ocala and smaller rural towns. Forestry sites, ranches, private airstrips and struggling coastal communities helped shape the north.
Leonida, frame by frame
The complete set published alongside Game Informer’s report. Select an image to inspect it at full size.
Images: Rockstar Games / Game Informer. Gallery source: RockstarINTEL.
Read the original report
Based on Marcus Stewart’s Game Informer feature, published on 29 September 2026. Reporting is summarised in our own words. Images belong to Rockstar Games; Game Informer images retain their original credit.
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