GTA 6 Setting: What Year and Era Is It Set In?
GTA 6 is set in the present day — a modern, contemporary Vice City. Unlike the 1980s of the original Vice City, GTA 6 captures today's culture, technology and internet age.
What year is GTA 6 set in?
Grand Theft Auto VI takes place in the modern day. Rather than the neon-soaked 1980s of 2002's Vice City, this is a present-day reimagining of the city — smartphones, social media and current internet culture all front and centre. The trailers make this clear, leaning heavily into the satire of modern online life.
Why the modern setting matters
Setting GTA 6 in the present lets Rockstar do what it does best: hold a mirror up to contemporary culture. Expect sharp satire of influencers, viral videos, social media and modern celebrity — themes that simply wouldn't fit an 80s setting. The era shapes everything from the in-game phone to the humour woven through the world.
How it differs from the original Vice City
- Original Vice City (2002): 1980s, inspired by the era's Miami.
- GTA 6: present-day, capturing modern Florida culture and technology.
- Same iconic location, completely different time period and tone.
What the era means for gameplay
A modern setting brings modern tools — a feature-rich smartphone, social media, current vehicles and contemporary city life. It also lets the world feel immediately familiar, reflecting the way we live now. For players, that means a Vice City that satirises the present rather than the past — a fresh take on a beloved location. Exact details will come as Rockstar reveals more.
Frequently asked questions
What year does GTA 6 take place in?
GTA 6 is set in the present day — a modern, contemporary Vice City, not the 1980s of the original Vice City game.
Is GTA 6 set in the 80s?
No. While the original Vice City was set in the 1980s, GTA 6 reimagines the city in the modern day.