Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive have filed a number of patents in recent years that point to major improvements coming in Grand Theft Auto VI. These filings suggest that the studio is working on new systems that could set a higher standard for open-world games.
A post by the account Grand Theft Auto VI Alerts on X recently shared a summary of ten patents linked to Rockstar. These cover a wide range of areas, from graphics and animation to online features and game performance.
One of the patents describes a new system for creating more realistic characters. This involves the use of motion capture data combined with predictive methods to make character movements look more natural. Another patent focuses on the flow of fluids over 3D surfaces, which may improve how water or other liquids react in the game world, especially during events like rainstorms or driving through puddles.
The way non-player characters (NPCs) move through the game may also see a big upgrade. One patent outlines a method that uses a road network graph, which could help NPCs move in a smoother and more believable way throughout the city. This could improve traffic behavior and pedestrian navigation.
Rockstar is also looking at ways to improve how the game looks and runs. One patent discusses a system for keeping high detail on models like cars, buildings, and characters, no matter how far they are from the camera. Other filings describe improvements to lighting, rendering quality, and overall performance on new consoles.
For online play, one of the patents describes a method to reduce the time it takes to join a session, allowing players to connect with others more quickly. Another patent focuses on how in-game purchases and transactions are managed, which could play a role in how the online part of the game is structured.
Security is another area Rockstar is working on. A patent describes a system to fight cheating by using hidden in-game elements that are harder to detect and manipulate. This could lead to a fairer and more secure online experience.
Rockstar hasn’t said exactly which of these systems will be used in GTA VI, but the patents show the direction the team is heading. Even if only some of these ideas make it into the final game, they suggest a focus on more realistic behavior, better visuals, and smoother online features.
So far, not much has been shown from the game itself. A new trailer 2 was released recently, giving players another look at what’s coming. Grand Theft Auto VI is now set to launch in May 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. While the delay is disappointing for fans, the new footage helped build even more interest in what could be one of Rockstar’s most advanced games yet.
Source: Wccftech, @GTA6Alerts
