Story perspectives

Tokyo GTA Game Almost Happened, Says Former Director

12/24/2025

Summary

Story summary

Obbe Vermeij, former Rockstar North technical director, says a Tokyo GTA game was nearly developed by a Japanese studio using Rockstar code, but scrapped.
Other settings included Rio de Janeiro, Moscow, and Istanbul, but were not pursued.
Vermeij cites long development cycles and the franchise’s American focus, doubting future international settings.
Grand Theft Auto VI is set for release on November 19, 2026, returning to Vice City with dual protagonists.

History

Historical Context

In 2003, Rockstar Games announced plans for a Tokyo-based Grand Theft Auto, aiming to diversify its global settings. However, the project was shelved due to lengthy development cycles and a focus on American culture, highlighted by the success of Vice City, which sold over 8 million copies in 2002. This reflects ongoing challenges in expanding the franchise's narrative scope beyond familiar environments.

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Story summary

Obbe Vermeij, former Rockstar North technical director, says a Tokyo GTA game was nearly developed by a Japanese studio using Rockstar code, but scrapped.
Other settings included Rio de Janeiro, Moscow, and Istanbul, but were not pursued.
Vermeij cites long development cycles and the franchise’s American focus, doubting future international settings.
Grand Theft Auto VI is set for release on November 19, 2026, returning to Vice City with dual protagonists.

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