GTA 6 has not been released yet. This guide is based on what Rockstar Games has revealed so far and will be updated when the game launches.
GTA 6 Age Rating Explained
GTA 6 has received its age rating. Find out what it is, why the game received it and what parents should know.
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What is the GTA 6 age rating?
Grand Theft Auto VI has been rated Mature by the ESRB, the organisation that rates video games in North America. The official GTA 6 website shows this rating together with the content descriptors that explain why.
A Mature rating means the game is intended for players aged 17 and older. That is the same kind of rating earlier main GTA games received.
Why is GTA 6 rated Mature?
The ESRB lists the kinds of content that led to the rating. For GTA 6, the descriptors shown on the official website include:
- Blood and gore
- Intense violence
- Mature humour
- Nudity
- Strong language
- Sexual content
- Use of drugs and alcohol
The rating also notes in-game purchases, which means the game offers optional purchases with real money.
What about ratings outside North America?
Other regions use their own rating systems. In much of Europe, for example, games are rated by PEGI, and other countries have their own boards. Each system has its own age categories and descriptors. Given the content listed above, it is reasonable to expect adult ratings elsewhere as well, but check the official rating in your own country for the exact category.
Advice for parents
If you are a parent or guardian deciding whether GTA 6 is suitable, the rating is a useful starting point, but it helps to understand what kind of game it is.
It is a crime story
GTA games are built around criminal characters and situations. Violence, crime and adult themes are central to the story, not occasional moments.
Players have a lot of freedom
Open-world games let players go almost anywhere and do almost anything within the world. That freedom includes violent actions that the game does not force but does allow.
Satire is part of the style
The series is known for its satirical take on modern life, with jokes aimed at media, politics and pop culture. Younger players may not pick up on that layer.
Use console controls
PlayStation and Xbox both offer parental controls that let you limit games by age rating, set spending limits and manage play time. These settings can help, whatever you decide.
In-game purchases
The "in-game purchases" notice means the game offers items that can be bought with real money. If younger family members use the console, it is worth setting a spending limit or requiring a password for purchases.
Frequently asked questions
What age is GTA 6 for?
The ESRB has rated it Mature, which means 17 and older.
Why is GTA 6 rated Mature?
Because of blood and gore, intense violence, mature humour, nudity, strong language, sexual content and drug and alcohol use.
Does GTA 6 have in-game purchases?
The ESRB rating notes in-game purchases.
Can I limit what my child plays?
Yes. Both PlayStation and Xbox offer parental controls for age ratings, spending and play time.