DATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2026
★ SPECIAL PRINT EDITION ★
SECTION: GAMING
Rockstar's GTA 6 Research Trips Took Devs to Florida's Beaches and Nightlife

Rockstar's GTA 6 Research Trips Took Devs to Florida's Beaches and Nightlife

Sep 30, 2026 - 00:23
GTA 6 devs spent years "going to strip clubs" and the beach to research Florida life
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Key Highlights

  • Rupert Humphries, senior vice president of narrative, Game Informer.
  • Florida, beaches, nightlife, GTA 6 research trips.
  • Rockstar North, Edinburgh, Scotland, GTA 6 development.

Game development is a demanding and often underappreciated profession. Developers spend years pouring their hearts and souls into their craft, only to face criticism and uncertainty.

However, it's essential to consider the context of Rockstar's regular GTA 6 research trips in Florida, which may not be as unusual as they seem.

The team's trips, led by senior vice president of narrative Rupert Humphries, aim to immerse themselves in the game's environments. Humphries explains, We strive to experience the full range of settings, from exploring areas at night with former law enforcement officials to visiting strip clubs, nightclubs, and beaches.

These excursions are part of a broader effort to gather reference material for the game's development.

Rockstar has a global presence, with various subsidiaries across the world. However, the development of GTA 6 is centered in Rockstar North, located in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Read More: Xbox Mass Layoffs: "Things Are Still Very Chaotic" Amid Microsoft's Steep Expectations

While it's likely that some developers appreciate the opportunity to experience different climates, the notion of going clubbing as a work activity may not be ideal for everyone.

Dustin Bailey
Dustin Bailey

According to Humphries, the game's story is deeply rooted in the contrast between wealth and poverty. We aim to create an environment where rich and poor coexist. And crime and corruption serve as the thread that ties everything together.

This narrative approach is designed to provide players with a rich and immersive experience.

While many game studios conduct research trips, the fact that GTA 6's inspirations are based on tourist destinations and nightlife hubs makes these trips seem more appealing than others. However, it's essential to recognize that every location has its unique charm and challenges.

As a resident of Missouri, I can attest to the difficulties of dealing with extreme heat and humidity, even without the added pressure of meeting new people.

So far, we've learned about several locations that will feature in the game. These include areas in Florida, as well as other destinations that will provide players with a rich and diverse experience.

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Rockstar's commitment to creating an authentic and engaging game is evident in their research trips. By immersing themselves in the environments and cultures that will feature in the game. The developers are able to craft a narrative that will resonate with players.

As we continue to learn more about GTA 6, it's clear that the game will be a must-play experience for fans of the series.

With its focus on contrast and the intersection of different worlds, GTA 6 promises to be a major shift. By exploring the complexities of human nature and the consequences of crime and corruption. The game will provide players with a thought-provoking and immersive experience.

As we count down to the game's release, we can't wait to see how Rockstar's vision comes to life.

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I write about the forces shaping business and the global economy, from startup growth and changing markets to international trade and policy. My work focuses on breaking down complex developments into clear, practical insights and understanding what they could mean for businesses, investors, and the wider economy.

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