GTA 5: Next-Gen Release Date For New Version of Grand Theft Auto 5 & GTA Online Announced

By Sam Hargrave Updated:
Grand Theft Auto Online

After almost eight years since its initial release, Grand Theft Auto V remains one of the most popular games in the world. While the Rockstar title initially launched on Xbox 360 and PS3, it has since been re-released to allow for better graphics and performance on Xbox One, PS4, and PC. 

The open-world game initially saw great popularity due to its large-scale blockbuster story mode, however, its online multiplayer mode remains popular to this day as it continues to receive updates and new content.

As fans await a sixth installment in the franchise, Rockstar is preparing to release the record-breaking title for PS5 and Xbox Series X.

The next-gen editions of the popular game will include brand-new features as well as exclusive in-game cash bonuses for PlayStation players.

NEXT-GEN GRAND THEFT AUTO V GETS NOVEMBER RELEASE DATE

In a blog post on the Rockstar Games website, the legendary publisher confirmed that Grand Theft Auto V is set to release on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S on November 11. The upcoming re-release of the 2013 title has been described as “expanded and enhanced,” with the next-generation editions set to include new features.

Additionally, the renowned Grand Theft Auto Online mode is set to release as a separate purchase this year on both console platforms. However, the standalone release will be available free of charge for the first three months only on PS5 and for PS Plus subscribers on PS4.

GRAND THEFT AUTO ONLINE REVEALS SUMMER UPDATES

GTA Updates
Rockstar Games

Prior to the release of a full Summer update of Grand Theft Auto Online, the multiplayer experience is set to release eight new Stunt Races on May 27. The new tracks will take place with a variety of vehicle types while offering “an array of white-knuckle thrills for stunt racers.”

Meanwhile, new updates are also on the way for the futuristic Deadline mode and the wave-based Survival mode. Deadline will be updated to include seven new arenas to take on opponents in, and Survival will now support many more locations across Los Santos and Blaine County.

RED DEAD ONLINE TEASES MAJOR UPDATES

Red Dead Races
Rockstar Games

Rockstar's most recent online outing, Red Dead Online, will also receive an array of additions this summer with eight new races taking place on iconic locations across the whole map. The races will take place across both Open and Standard modes, as well as the Target and Open Target race modes where players must take down targets with a bow and arrow on horseback. All eight races will be released on May 25, 2021.

The post went on to tease the summer update that will arrive in the coming months with new missions across the western world. The series of missions will see players join Guido Martelli's new criminal network, committing crimes to earn blood money. 

COULD A NEXT-GEN GRAND THEFT AUTO 5 DELAY A SIXTH TITLE?

As Grand Theft Auto V and its online counterpart continue to dominate the gaming world, many fans are still holding out hope for a sixth installment in the franchise to release in the near future. While a sequel is almost certainly in development, Rockstar's ongoing commitment to its last entry in the franchise is a strong indication that support for the Los Santos-set title won't be going away any time soon.

With the PS5 and Xbox Series X only having hit stores last year and gamers still unable to get their hands on one, Rockstar will likely want to leave some time before releasing Grand Theft Auto 6. In leaving a few more years before dropping the sequel, enough gamers may finally be able to get their hands on the new consoles to allow for a successful next-gen-only release.

Grand Theft Auto V changed the gaming industry forever with its inclusion of one of the biggest open worlds and overall multiplayer experiences of all time. With anticipation high for a sequel, the long-awaited release is sure to be another record-breaker, especially if it takes full advantage of next-gen technology to deliver a particularly innovative experience once against.

Grand Theft Auto V is currently available on PC, PS4, PS3, Xbox One, and Xbox 360, with the title set to release on PS5 and Xbox Series X on November 11, 2021.

- About The Author: Sam Hargrave
Sam Hargrave is the Associate Editor at The Direct. He joined the team as a gaming writer in 2020 before later expanding into writing for all areas of The Direct and taking on further responsibilities such as editorial tasks and image creation.