A new rumor has emerged that implies current GTA Online characters may not be transferrable to the next iteration of Grand Theft Auto Online when GTA 6 releases. This rumor comes from credible sources within the GTA community but remains unconfirmed by Rockstar Games. If true, it could mean GTA Online players need to start their characters from scratch when GTA 6 finally launches.
The Rumor
The potential lack of character transfers was first suggested in a tweet exchange between popular GTA YouTube channel TGG and known Rockstar games insider account Rockstar Universe. When asked if there were any details on Rockstar’s plans for the future of GTA Online, Rockstar Universe responded:
“I heard it will be a fresh start for everyone…our characters won’t transfer over and our ranks will be reset. This is just what I heard through the grapevine though.”
While not an official confirmation, Rockstar Universe has proven a reliable source of leaks in the past. The prospect of no character transfers has since ignited discussion and speculation within the GTA community.
Reaction from GTA Fans
The rumor has elicited mixed reactions from GTA Online devotees. Some players welcome the idea of a fresh start, seeing positives in everyone beginning GTA 6 Online on equal footing.
“I’m all for it honestly, be nice being on the same level as everyone again,” commented one Reddit user.
However, others are understandably disappointed at potentially losing years of progression from their current characters.
“This sucks. I put so much time into my character,” lamented a fan on Twitter. “Guess I won’t be playing the next GTA Online if this happens.”
Reasons for a Reset
While frustrating for veterans, a character reset makes sense for several reasons. With GTA 6 expected to make major strides in graphics, gameplay mechanics, and world size, maintaining continuity with GTA Online character data may prove extremely complex.
There are also balancing factors – allowing transferred characters with amassed wealth and possessions may undermine GTA 6 Online’s player progression systems.
Starting on an even playing field aligns with the likely expanded multiplayer scope of the next GTA Online. Rockstar will want to hook new players as well as veterans, so not giving anyone an inherent advantage is logical.
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What Might Carry Over
While character stats and items may not make the jump to GTA 6 Online, some player data could still carry over.
Potential candidates include:
- Gamertags/Rockstar Social Club ID
- Currency balances from GTA Online – possibly converted at a reduced rate
- Achievement/trophy progress
- Custom crew or clan affiliations
Rockstar could still reward loyal players in other ways, without upsetting gameplay balance.
GTA Online’s Continued Success
Despite launching way back in 2013, GTA Online continues to thrive, recently crossing over $6 billion in total player spending.
Weekly content updates, new missions, vehicles, weapons, and the Cayo Perico Heist expansion have kept the huge player base engaged.
With the PS5 and Xbox Series X enhancing performance, GTA Online shows no signs of slowing down. GTA 6 Online may not release for several years either, giving players plenty more time to enjoy their current characters.
What Happens to Old GTA Online Accounts
If the rumor proves accurate, existing GTA Online profiles would likely remain intact and playable. The shared world of Los Santos and Blaine County isn’t vanishing.
However, expect Rockstar’s focus to eventually shift more toward evolving GTA Online within GTA 6 and enticing players to start their criminal careers there.
Lowered server capacity for the old GTA Online would be unsurprising in the long run.
GTA 6’s Online Mode
While only a rumor for now, the notion of resetting characters for GTA 6 Online aligns with what we know about the game’s online elements.
Rockstar has confirmed that GTA 6 will feature an “ever-evolving” online world, building off the successes of GTA Online.
Such evolution necessitates upgraded technology, rendering copying old character data problematic. The purported acquisition of multiplayer modification company FiveM also hints at big changes.
GTA 6 Online may also expand into areas like co-op missions and roleplaying – allowing character resets may help adoption in these new areas.
Official Word Awaited
Rockstar Games has yet to officially clarify its stance on continuing character progression from current GTA Online.
That definitive word will likely come closer to GTA 6’s launch window, whenever that may be.
For now, players should continue enjoying GTA Online and not worry about unsubstantiated rumors. There are still lots of future updates to explore in the years ahead.
Once GTA 6’s debut trailer drops this December, concrete details around the new GTA Online experience should start to emerge.
The rumor highlights the difficult balance Rockstar faces between rewarding veterans and welcoming newcomers. Ultimately, whatever decision is made will prioritize the long-term health of GTA Online.
Until Rockstar confirms one way or another, the question of character transfers remains speculative. But the seeds of change are certainly being sown for the eventual evolution of GTA Online within GTA 6.
