Generative AI Has No Role in GTA 6 - Says Take Two CEO Strauss Zelnick

Rockstar Games’ highly anticipated title Grand Theft Auto 6 is officially scheduled for release on November 19, 2026, with parent company Take Two Interactive reaffirming its launch plans this week. The company also confirmed that the marketing campaign for the game will begin in the summer of 2026. The game will launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X platforms.

Take Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has now confirmed that GTA 6 will not feature any generative artificial intelligence in its development. Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz ahead of the company’s third-quarter FY 2026 earnings call, Zelnick said that while Take Two actively uses AI-based productivity tools, generative AI is not involved in the creative aspects of its games.

Zelnick emphasized that Rockstar’s games are built on human creativity, stating that every element in GTA 6 has been handcrafted by developers. He explained that Rockstar’s worlds are designed “building by building, street by street, and neighborhood by neighborhood,” and are not procedurally generated, which he believes is key to delivering high quality entertainment experiences.

While acknowledging that generative AI can help reduce development costs and improve efficiency in certain workflows, Zelnick reiterated that AI cannot replace creativity. Despite some studios experimenting with AI tools, Take Two maintains that creativity-driven titles like Grand Theft Auto require a human touch. The company also dismissed rumors suggesting a delayed physical release to avoid leaks.