One of the most anticipated video games of all time could be blocked for millions of players.
With hype for Grand Theft Auto 6 reaching historic levels, a new controversy has emerged overseas. Russian officials have reportedly threatened to ban the game entirely unless Rockstar Games removes what they describe as “immoral content” from the upcoming release.
The Grand Theft Auto franchise is no stranger to controversy. For nearly three decades, the series has been known for its sharp satire, exaggerated crime-filled worlds, and willingness to push cultural boundaries. From mocking politics and celebrity culture to lampooning modern society, GTA has built its identity on being unapologetically provocative.
However, a newly leaked detail from GTA 6 appears to have crossed a line for Russian authorities.
According to reporting by Dexerto, a senior Russian official warned that the game may be prohibited nationwide if Rockstar does not remove certain content believed to appear in the next installment. If enforced, the ban could prevent more than 146 million people from accessing a game fans have waited over 13 years to see.
The controversy centers on rumors—originating from a major leak later acknowledged by Rockstar—that GTA 6 may include male strippers for the first time in the franchise. While strip clubs have existed in the series since the original Grand Theft Auto in 1997, previous games have only featured female dancers.
Mikhail Ivanov, deputy chairman of the World Russian People’s Council, criticized the rumored inclusion in strong terms. In an interview with News.ru, Ivanov stated that the content would be “completely unacceptable to the moral health of society,” claiming it violates what he called Russia’s “traditional spiritual values.”
He went on to argue that such material could negatively influence younger audiences and urged Rockstar Games to release a “cleaned” or altered version of the game specifically for the Russian market.
Notably, Ivanov’s criticism did not address the franchise’s long-standing depictions of violence, crime, or other adult themes—elements that have defined GTA for years.
As of now, Rockstar Games has not commented on the threat. Given the studio’s history of creative independence, many industry watchers believe it is unlikely Rockstar will alter the game’s content to meet individual government demands.
With GTA 6 still months away from release, it remains to be seen whether this warning will lead to real consequences—or simply add another chapter to the franchise’s long history of controversy.
