Grand Theft Auto 6 Skips Major Theme Parks in Florida-Inspired Map Design

Rockstar Games has decided against including major Florida theme parks like Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld in Grand Theft Auto 6's map design, according to details shared in a recent Game Informer cover story.

Paul MacPherson, senior vice president of environment art, explained the reasoning behind the choice. "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 distil a list down that best works with and serves the game's needs," MacPherson said. "So, while we may not have those exact locations, everything we have is geared to getting that full Florida experience."

The in-game state of Leonida will feature six distinct regions: Vice City, Leonida Keys, the Grassrivers, Port Gellhorn, Ambrosia, and Mount Kalaga National Park. Rockstar has completely rebuilt and expanded Vice City over its previous appearances in the franchise. The developer has called the overall map its biggest by "some degree."

Rupert Humphries, senior vice president of narrative, discussed how the story guides player exploration. "We don't have time to take you everywhere, but we want you to be able to explore and get a feel for most of the places, cultures, and vibes," Humphries said. "This game and its stories really thrive in an environment where you have rich people and poor people right next door to each other. And crime and corruption are the thread that pulls everyone together."

Rockstar has also invested in advanced environmental systems. Vice president of art for lighting and rendering Owen Shepherd confirmed that in-game rain can create realistic rainbows under the right lighting conditions, and surfaces remain wet after rainfall with persistent puddles. The game will feature over 170 animal species.

Grand Theft Auto 6 launches November 19 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.