GTA 6 introduces revamped Wanted system and new Criminal Profile mechanic

Rockstar North confirmed that Grand Theft Auto VI will bring back the classic six-star Wanted system, but with expanded police awareness. The system will generate a suspect description that includes the player’s clothing, vehicle and whether they were seen with another character. Crimes must be witnessed or reported, such as by an alarm, for police to respond. Players can evade detection by changing outfits, swapping vehicles, moving on foot in crowded areas or separating from a partner if the description lists a duo.

A new Criminal Profile will run alongside the Wanted system, tracking how players conduct themselves. > "If you hit and run, commit a crime and run, get into trouble and move on before the cops get there, and you don't start shooting people, don't start escalating – which you absolutely can do if you want to – but if you don't, you're generally going to be fine," Rockstar North co-studio head Rob Nelson told IGN. > "It's when you go beyond what is necessary on a consistent basis, or you do completely unnecessary stuff consistently, that you may start to sway your criminal profile in a certain direction," he added.

The profile will consider context, rewarding defensive actions while penalising unnecessary escalation. Acts such as feeding stray animals may improve the profile, similar to the honor system in Red Dead Redemption 2. Nelson emphasized that there is no single correct play style, but consistent behavior will influence how the game world and narrative respond.

The game is scheduled for release on 19 November for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Separate reports note ongoing labor disputes at Rockstar, with the parent company Take-Two citing "gross misconduct" for recent staff dismissals, while a trade union alleges victimisation linked to union activity.