Rockstar has released some teasing details about Grand Theft Auto V, following the launch of the first game trailer on Wednesday. The company confirmed that the title is in full production at the Rockstar North studio where all the home console versions have been designed since GTA III.
In a short press release, Los Santos, GTA's fictional version of Los Angeles, was also confirmed as the game's setting. Mentioned throughout the series, the city forms one of the main sections of the 2004 release Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. It features versions of Hollywood, Rodeo Drive, Downtown and crime-ridden areas such as Compton. Rockstar also stated that the surrounding hills, countryside and beaches would also figure.
The press release goes on to describe GTA V as a bold new direction in open-world freedom, storytelling, mission-based gameplay and online multiplayer. The previous title, GTA IV, made ambitious use of multiplayer elements, including the implementation of a social networking service, The Rockstar Social club.
As for the plot, Rockstar would only say that the game focuses on the pursuit of the almighty dollar in a re-imagined, present day Southern California. Which sounds like the Grand Theft Auto experience we all know and love.
The big question mark is over tone. While some gamers appreciated the more gritty, downbeat flavour of GTA IV, many longed for the glitz, glamour and comedy of GTA III: Vice City. The glinting sun, multiple beach shots and suggestions of seedy night life indicate that Grand Theft Auto might be swaying back in that direction.
