Is GTA 6 connected to old games? Evidence that points towards the connection to GTA's existing lore

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 22, 2025, 20:04 IST

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Rockstar's GTA 6 trailer has ignited the internet, showcasing stunning graphics and Lucia, the series' first female protagonist. Set in Leonida, a Florida-inspired state, the game revisits iconic Vice City. The trailer hints at connections to previous titles through returning brands like Sprunk and familiar locations such as the Ocean View Hotel.

Is GTA 6 connected to old games? Evidence that points towards the connection to GTA's existing lore

Image via Rockstar

Rockstar finally dropped the GTA 6 trailer, and the internet lost its mind. While everyone’s talking about the insane graphics and Lucia, the first female protagonist in the series, some eagle-eyed fans are asking a bigger question: Is GTA 6 connected to previous games? Short answer? It looks like it. Long answer? There are tons of hidden details that suggest GTA 6 isn’t just a new game—it’s part of GTA’s massive, chaotic, and legendary universe.

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1. Vice City Is Back

GTA 6 is set in Leonida, a fictional Florida-inspired state, with Vice City at its heart. OG fans know Vice City was the setting of GTA: Vice City (2002), meaning Rockstar is bringing back one of the most iconic locations in gaming. But is it just a nostalgia play, or is there more?

The city’s skyline has been modernized, but it still has the same vibe as the 80s version.
The Malibu Club, Ocean Drive, and Little Haiti are back, hinting at a deeper connection.
Could we see returning characters or references to Tommy Vercetti?

2. The GTA 5 Connection

GTA 5 left players with a connected universe, thanks to the massive multiplayer world of GTA Online. And it seems GTA 6 is expanding on that.

The LC24 News Channel (from GTA 5) appears in the GTA 6 trailer, confirming that media and events exist in the same timeline.
Fans spotted a tamed gator in one clip—possibly a reference to Trevor’s infamous pet in GTA Online.
The trailer’s social media influencer vibes feel like an evolution of GTA 5’s modern, satirical take on today’s world.

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3. Familiar Brands & Locations

Eagle-eyed fans have spotted familiar in-game brands in GTA 6’s trailer—Sprunk, eCola, Cluckin’ Bell, and even LifeInvader. These fictional companies have been part of the GTA universe for years, linking GTA 6 to the past games.
Also, Ocean View Hotel, a classic spot from GTA: Vice City, appears in the trailer, reinforcing the idea that this is the same world—just years later.
Rockstar isn’t throwing away its rich lore—it’s expanding it. While GTA 6 won’t be a direct sequel to older games, it’s clear that Vice City exists in the same world as GTA 4 and 5. The Easter eggs, returning locations, and familiar brands all point to one thing—this is the next chapter in the GTA saga, not a fresh start.

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About the Author

TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

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