GTA VI: frame rate issues and new business model stir debate

The excitement around Grand Theft Auto VI is growing, but concerns over its frame rate have surfaced ahead of its expected launch.

While the game promises significant graphical advancements, Mike York, a former Rockstar Games animator, has reported that GTA VI could be limited to 30 FPS on consoles at its debut.

Appearing on the now-deleted Kiwi Talkz podcast, York expressed skepticism about the title's ability to meet the usual 60 frames per second performance target at release.

"They're going to squeeze every little freaking thing they can out of it and then optimize later for 60 frames," he noted, highlighting the game's complex graphical demands as a primary factor behind this limitation.

York's comments align with ongoing discussions among fans and industry insiders about GTA VI's technical capabilities and performance expectations.

Rockstar GTA 6 updates: possible new business model

Adding to the growing concerns are speculations about Rockstar's new business model for GTA VI. Leaker Tez2 has claimed that the game will launch in two separate versions—one featuring only the story mode and the other focusing solely on the multiplayer experience of GTA Online.

This marks a notable departure from Rockstar's past strategy, which usually bundled online modes with the main single-player game.

I don't know if they'll be able to pull off 60 FPS

Mike York

According to the leaker, the two versions could offer a more affordable standalone option for players primarily interested in online gameplay, potentially appealing to different segments of the gaming community.

Community reaction

These revelations have sparked a range of reactions from fans. While some embrace the prospect of more accessible pricing options for certain aspects of the game, others are concerned about potential limitations on frame rate and overall value.

A number of gamers remain cautiously optimistic, hoping that future patches will resolve these issues and ultimately deliver smoother gameplay.  York himself remains hopeful about the possibility of higher FPS rates on PC platforms.

"The advancements in hardware technology might eventually allow the game to run at much higher frame rates," he said.

This optimism is echoed by many who recall the substantial performance improvements made when GTA V transitioned from its console launch to its eventual PC release.

Predecessor's popularity

Interest in the current iteration of Grand Theft Auto continues to grow as gamers eagerly await the next installment. Recent data reveals that GTA Online reached an impressive peak of over 129,000 simultaneous users in January 2025.

This sustained popularity highlights the enduring influence of GTA V and its online mode, which remain central to the gaming experience for many as they await the release of GTA VI.

Despite increasing expectations and ongoing speculation, Rockstar has remained tight-lipped about specific release details and updates.

As the planned fall 2025 release approaches, industry insiders and players closely monitor how these rumored changes will impact the final product.

GTA 6 release countdown: anticipation rises

With the gaming community's fervent expectations and growing excitement, all eyes remain on Rockstar Games as they prepare for what many consider one of the most significant releases in recent years.

Whether concerns about frame rates and pricing prove valid or not, GTA VI is set to redefine industry standards and establish new benchmarks within its genre.  In the meantime, fans continue to explore the expansive worlds of GTA Online and V while eagerly awaiting further official updates from Rockstar.

With each passing day, enthusiasm builds, positioning GTA VI as one of the most eagerly awaited releases in gaming history.

As players gear up for the next chapter in the Grand Theft Auto saga, they are ready to embrace whatever surprises the game holds.