Grand Theft Auto (GTA) 5's Michael De Santa (Ned Luke) offers fans reassurance about the highly anticipated GTA 6, predicting blockbuster sales. This article delves into expectations surrounding GTA 6's development and release.
Rockstar Games' Unconventional Approach to GTA 6
GTA 6's Projected $1.3 Billion Day-One Revenue
Ned Luke boldly predicts GTA 6 will generate a staggering $1.3 billion in its first 24 hours. In a YouTube interview with Fall Damage, Luke expressed immense confidence in the game's success, highlighting Rockstar's unpredictable nature as a key factor.
Luke urged patience, assuring fans, "It's going to be worth the wait. From what I've seen, it's going to be amazing." He referenced GTA 5's impressive $800 million day-one sales in 2013, suggesting GTA 6 will significantly surpass that record. Market research firm DFC Intelligence projects over 40 million copies sold and $3.2 billion in revenue within the first year, with $1 billion attributed solely to pre-orders.
The Return of GTA 5 Characters in GTA 6?
Luke also shared insights on the potential return of GTA 5 characters in GTA Online and possibly GTA 6. He noted Michael's absence from GTA Online since its launch, unlike Trevor and Franklin.
Luke hinted at Michael's possible appearance in a future GTA Online DLC or even GTA 6 itself. While Steven Ogg (Trevor in GTA 5) previously suggested Trevor's death as a narrative device (via ScreenRant, January 2025), Luke remained coy, stating, "Maybe [Michael, Franklin, and Trevor will be] in GTA 6... Maybe. Maybe not." Despite the actors' enthusiasm, Rockstar Games hasn't officially confirmed the return of these characters.
GTA 6: In the Testing Phase?
Former Rockstar animator Mike York (in a since-deleted interview with Kiwi Talkz) indicated GTA 6 is likely undergoing internal testing. He emphasized the game's unique unpredictability, stating, "There are a lot of things that can happen that you don't really think about until some random kid in his basement tries it."
York believes the game is currently undergoing rigorous internal testing, suggesting it's at least playable and potentially extensively tested by internal teams. "They're probably still putting in a little work and throwing in little extras," he added.
Rockstar Games unveiled GTA 6 with a trailer in December 2023, but has remained tight-lipped since. While a Fall 2025 release was previously speculated (based on Take-Two Interactive's 2024 financial report), no official release date has been announced.
For the latest updates on GTA 6, visit our dedicated Grand Theft Auto 6 page.