Game Informer reveals Grand Theft Auto VI cover story ahead of November launch

Game Informer revealed on September 25, 2026 that Grand Theft Auto VI is the cover story of its Issue 382, a 14-page feature on how Rockstar Games built the game's version of Florida, called Leonida. The issue arrives less than two months before the game's November 19, 2026 release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

What the cover story covers

According to Game Informer, the feature includes exclusive details on the game's advanced weather systems, its wildlife, which the magazine says includes more than 170 animal species, and the studio's research into creating an authentic and culturally accurate world.

Gaming Bible reports that the story covers "advanced weather systems that simulate Florida's less sunny weather phenomena," wildlife across land, air and sea in Leonida, and Rockstar's approach to researching Miami and Florida. The outlet adds that the feature includes interview material on Vice City and Leonida.

The story comes with 12 new screenshots. The cover itself is original artwork by Rockstar Games showing the game's two protagonists, Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos, according to Game Informer.

"If you want to know just how 'Florida' GTAVI aims to be, you don't want to miss this story," the magazine writes.

Gameplay topics

Gaming Bible reports that the coverage also explores the relationship between Jason and Lucia, activities such as skydiving and scuba diving, heists, and how player choices affect a character's reputation and the story's outcome.

When the issue is available

Game Informer says the digital version of the issue goes live on September 29, 2026, with print copies reaching subscribers and newsstands in the following weeks. Gaming Bible reports that the issue is available in the U.S. and more than 50 other countries.

Issue 382 also includes previews from Gamescom, coverage of the Persona 4 Revival remake, a 10-page feature on Tides of Annihilation, and an interview with Finn Wolfhard about Pokémon games, according to Game Informer.

Why it matters

With Grand Theft Auto VI due out on November 19, 2026, the 14-page feature and 12 new screenshots give players new detail on Leonida's weather, wildlife and setting before launch.

Sources

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.