A reader has expressed concern that GTA 6, despite its impressive graphics and vast open world, is missing a crucial element: humour. In a new Reader’s Feature, Harley Dalton argues that the recent gameplay reveals show little innovation beyond classic GTA mechanics, and that the dialogue lacks the wit and personality that made previous Rockstar titles memorable.
A decade of development, but little new
Dalton notes that after over 10 years and an estimated $1 to $3 billion budget, one might expect more innovation. The extended gameplay reveal featured car chases, gunfights, and store robberies, but little else, leading to fears that GTA 6 will be 'GTA 5 with a fresh face'.
However, Dalton is not overly concerned about this, acknowledging that GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2 remain popular because they are incredible games. If GTA 6 maintains the core loop of its predecessors, it will likely be a hit even without extensive new gameplay systems, as the basic feel of shooting, driving, and exploring in a Rockstar title remains satisfying.
Graphics impress, but dialogue falls flat
Graphically, the game looks impressive, with more detailed interiors, a wider variety of enterable buildings, and incredible draw distance. Character models are also a standout, with greater diversity of body shapes and fashion.
Yet, Dalton points out that the previews contained extensive dialogue between protagonists Jason and Lucia and a host of other characters, yet the game failed to be funny. This is a crucial missing element for a Rockstar game to thrive, as GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2 are 'absolutely hilarious at times', with larger-than-life characters like Trevor Phillips and Lamar Davis delivering cutting, chaotic jokes.
A lack of personality and tension
The best attempts at humour in the preview were Jason's offhand remark about Lucia taking long to get ready, and a streamer asking his chat what to do when carjacked. Dalton describes these as stale or dependent on Lucia's reaction, which was lacking.
Worse, almost none of the dialogue was interesting. Jason has 'the personality of a spoon', and Lucia isn't much better. The opening scene, where the pair walk through a gang hideout repeating lines to nondescript NPCs, is tedious. A villain's most sinister line is 'It is what it is.' Dalton argues there is no subtle character building, no tension, and no humour, just functional dialogue delivered with an apathetic tone.
Dalton acknowledges that Rockstar's writing in recent years, particularly in GTA Online, has not been up to scratch, but GTA 6 is supposed to be their biggest flagship launch. On current evidence, Dalton fears the game will fall flat and be 'boring'.
