The gameplay of Grand Theft Auto has evolved enormously with each console generation. With the exclusive generational leap to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, Grand Theft Auto VI promises to modernize the fluidity of its controls and significantly expand accessibility options so that any player can enjoy Lucia and Jason’s criminal adventure in Leonida.
In this article, we analyze what the official trailers and Rockstar Games’ technical precedents indicate about the game’s control scheme and inclusive options, clearly distinguishing what is verified from reasonable technical expectations.
Confirmed and observed in official material
Through the promotional videos and trailers published by Rockstar Games, we can extract several certainties about the control mechanics and interaction in the open world:
- Dual protagonist control (Lucia and Jason): GTA VI brings back and refines the character switching mechanic introduced in GTA V. The system will allow alternating control between both protagonists during free exploration and in coordinated missions via a quick command on the D-pad or dedicated buttons.
- Weapon wheel and physical inventory: Similar to Red Dead Redemption 2, a weapon selection system using a radial menu (weapon wheel) with realistic carry limits is observed, where long weapons and heavy objects are carried in duffel bags, backpacks, or in the trunk of personal vehicles.
- Advanced cover and stealth mechanics: Interaction with the urban environment of Vice City includes fluid movements to crouch, switch cover, crawl, and manipulate hostages or bystanders during store robberies.
Controller features: DualSense on PS5 and Xbox Wireless Controller
Not having to adapt to previous generation consoles, Rockstar will be able to squeeze the specific technologies of current controllers. Whether you’re researching in English or looking up “controles gta 6” in Spanish-speaking communities, mastering these modern inputs will be crucial:
- Adaptive triggers (L2 / R2 on PS5): Progressive resistance when accelerating different types of vehicles (sports cars, speedboats, or light aircraft) and a differentiated tension response depending on the caliber and weight of the firearm when shooting.
- Haptic feedback: High-fidelity vibrations that transmit changes in terrain (asphalt, beach sand, mud from the Leonida swamps) or the rumble of bass from the music inside nightclubs.
- Reduced latency on Xbox Series X|S: Leveraging Dynamic Latency Input (DLI) technology for an immediate response in shootouts and extreme high-speed driving maneuvers.
Expected accessibility options
In recent years, the video game industry has advanced substantially in accessibility, and Rockstar Games already demonstrated this commitment in Red Dead Redemption 2 and the next-gen version of GTA V. It is foreseeable that GTA VI will incorporate a comprehensive accessibility menu with the following features:
Visual accessibility
- Colorblind filters: Pre-configured settings for deuteranopia, protanopia, and tritanopia, affecting the user interface, radar blips, and objective markers.
- Subtitle customization: Scalable font size, contrasted background for easier reading, and name tags for each speaking character.
- HUD and radar scaling: Possibility to increase the size of the minimap and health and ammo status icons.
Motor and control accessibility
- Various control schemes: Alternative options to accelerate and brake with face buttons or the D-pad, making the game easier for people with reduced mobility in their index fingers.
- Repeated presses automation: Option to toggle between “hold” or “press once” for sprinting, struggling, or object interaction actions.
- Customizable aim assist: Adjustable levels of auto-aim and target lock-on to facilitate shootouts without frustration.
Audio accessibility
- Visual sound indicators: Arrows or on-screen icons pointing to the source of nearby gunfire, police sirens, or vehicle horns.
- Custom audio mix: Independent volume channels for dialogue, radio music, sound effects, and ambient noise.
What changes in GTA 6 mechanics and controls
Compared to the traditional GTA V scheme, the new installment introduces radical transformations:
- Physical inventory and weight management: You will no longer be able to carry 30 weapons in your pockets; transporting rifles and shotguns will depend on slings or the car trunk. You can check the complete catalog in our guide to confirmed GTA 6 weapons.
- Cooperative control and commands to your partner: When playing as Lucia or Jason, you will be able to issue contextual orders (cover, intimidate, pick locks, or watch the entrance) during robberies. Learn more about the couple’s story in the GTA 6 characters guide.
- Navigation and tactical stealth: The crouch button is replaced by dynamic postures and the ability to crawl prone among the mangroves of Grassrivers.
To find out the cost of official controllers or special launch editions, check the GTA 6 price guide, and check the remaining days on the GTA 6 countdown.
Related: how the new six-star police system works.