Why GTA 6 is too powerful for PS4 and Xbox One

With the anticipation growing for the release of Grand Theft Auto VI, most players are questioning a question of utmost concern, will it be supported on older-generation consoles such as the PS4 and Xbox One? Sadly, the response is no. Rockstar Games has officially declared that GTA 6 will only be available for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. And there's an extremely sound reason for this ambitious next-gen-only approach.


GTA 6 demands next-gen hardware — Here’s why

GTA 6 officially launches this year on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. pic.twitter.com/2Q2H2misFw

— GTA 6 Countdown ⏳ (@GTAVI_Countdown) January 1, 2025

Rockstar isn’t simply cutting off old consoles without cause. The reality is that GTA 6 is designed to stretch the limits of what modern hardware can deliver. From what’s been revealed so far, the game boasts photorealistic visuals, massive open-world design, and far more complex AI systems. It’s an entirely new level of immersion that older systems simply can’t keep up with.


Early indications are that the GTA 6 map could cover more than 48 square miles, almost double the size of GTA 5's San Andreas. Add to that improved physics, dynamic weather, and high-density crowd systems, and the hardware burden is clear. Even GTA 5, which came out in 2013, ultimately suffered on PS4 and Xbox One in performance and stability, especially in GTA Online . Rockstar is making it loud and clear: they don't wish to revisit that history.


What this will mean for gamers still on PS4 and Xbox One


The move to a next-gen-only release is a landmark moment for the GTA series. Those still on PS4 or Xbox One will have to step up to the latest hardware in order to play what Rockstar assures will be the most immersive and detailed GTA to date. The developer's official announcement makes it clear that GTA 6 is arriving in Fall 2025, but only for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, and there is no word on backward compatibility.


Based in the state of Leonida, with a Vice City of today, the game will track the activities of Lucia and Jason in a Bonnie and Clyde-style storyline. With revolutionary visuals, mature gameplay mechanics, and more in-depth narrative storytelling, GTA 6 is designed for a new generation of gaming and that generation doesn't involve last-gen consoles.


Although it is disappointing for those on PS4 and Xbox One, Rockstar's move to next-gen only is based on technological aspiration. GTA 6 is intended to break new ground, and providing that vision needs the capability of current-gen consoles alone.


Also Read: 5 reasons why GTA 4 is still worth playing in 2025