An extended preview of Grand Theft Auto 6, overseen by Rockstar North co-studio head Rob Nelson, has revealed new details about the game's simulation-heavy systems, according to YouTuber TGG, whose findings were reported by GamesRadar+ and PC Gamer. Among the most discussed additions is a vehicle refueling and recharging system that has proven controversial among some players who worry it will interrupt the series' traditional flow of driving and action.
According to TGG, gas stations in GTA 6 allow players to repair and refuel vehicles, including recharging electric cars and refueling those with internal combustion engines. Selecting this option triggers a refueling cutscene that TGG says lasts around 10 seconds. During the preview, Nelson reportedly remarked, "Hey, that's pretty fast for a fill up. You can't complain about that," while also expressing some uncertainty about player reception, asking, "Do you think people are going to like it?" and adding, "We'll see what people say." TGG suggested that fuel management likely won't be a major issue for most players unless they aren't paying attention.
Beyond refueling, Nelson confirmed to TGG that GTA 6 will include an in-game health app tracking sleep and other health metrics for protagonists Lucia and Jason. Nelson said the app "will say whether you're well rested or not," and that this status will affect the regeneration of certain attributes. He added, "We track lots of things - all this good stuff." This system also reportedly includes weight fluctuation based on eating habits and muscle loss if physical activity isn't maintained, echoing similar mechanics from GTA San Andreas and Red Dead Redemption 2. Other simulated details include facial changes from overnight crime sprees and satirized in-game social media feeds, though Rockstar reportedly chose not to include fridge restocking as a mechanic.
On the topic of driving, Nelson discussed how GTA 6's vehicle handling compares to previous entries. Asked whether the game's cars feel as "weighty" as those in GTA 4, Nelson said, "Only in the best way possible. The team has worked hard to maintain some of the best parts of the weightiness and feel of GTA 4, but have the accessibility of GTA 5." He noted that the physics model was built from scratch for current hardware, with expanded control over drivetrain, tires, suspension, and steering.
As of these reports, no press or public outlets outside of Rockstar and publisher Take-Two have had hands-on access to GTA 6, meaning these details rely on Nelson's comments and TGG's observations during the guided preview. Grand Theft Auto 6 is scheduled to launch November 19 for PS5 and Xbox Series X.