Whether you want open-world chaos, crime drama, or just something to kill time — these 10 games will keep you busy until GTA 6 launches.
1. Red Dead Redemption 2
If you haven't played Rockstar's western masterpiece, now is the time. RDR2 is the closest thing to GTA 6 that currently exists — the same studio, the same attention to detail, the same emotional storytelling. Arthur Morgan's journey across the American frontier is the benchmark GTA 6 needs to beat. Plus, many of GTA 6's AI and world systems are built on RDR2's foundation.
2. GTA V (Replay or First Time)
Revisiting Los Santos with fresh eyes — knowing what GTA 6 is about to deliver — gives GTA V new context. Pay attention to the world design, NPC behavior, and mission structure. You'll appreciate both what Rockstar achieved in 2013 and how far they've come. If you've never played it, there's no better preparation for GTA 6.
3. Cyberpunk 2077 (Post-2.0 Update)
After its disastrous launch, Cyberpunk 2077's 2.0 update and Phantom Liberty DLC transformed it into the game CD Projekt RED originally promised. Night City is one of the most visually impressive open worlds ever built, and the reworked police system and NPC AI give it a density that rivals Rockstar's best work. The urban crime narrative hits similar notes to GTA.
4. Mafia: Definitive Edition
If you want a story-driven crime game with cinematic ambition, Mafia DE delivers. The 1930s setting, prohibition-era drama, and linear narrative make it feel like playing a Scorsese film. Less sandbox than GTA, but the writing and atmosphere are exceptional.
5. Saints Row (2022 Reboot)
Despite mixed reviews, the Saints Row reboot offers the closest modern equivalent to GTA's sandbox chaos. The criminal empire building, vehicle customization, and open-world mayhem scratch the GTA itch — even if the writing doesn't match Rockstar's standard.
6. Sleeping Dogs: Definitive Edition
An underrated gem — a Hong Kong-set crime game with exceptional martial arts combat, a compelling undercover cop narrative, and an open world that oozes atmosphere. If you haven't played it, you're in for a treat. The hand-to-hand combat system remains unmatched in the genre.
7. Watch Dogs: Legion
The "play as anyone" mechanic is fascinating — recruit any NPC in London to your resistance. The hacking gameplay offers a different flavor of urban open-world crime, and the near-future London setting is visually stunning.
8. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Kojima's latest is the only current game matching GTA 6's graphical ambitions. It's not a crime game — it's a bizarre, beautiful delivery simulator with Hollywood production values. Play it for the visuals and the weirdness. It's unlike anything else.
9. Just Cause 4
Pure chaos sandbox. Grappling hook physics, destructible environments, and an absurd action movie tone. When you want to blow stuff up without consequences, Just Cause delivers. Not deep, but incredibly fun.
10. GTA: Vice City (Original or Definitive Edition)
Go back to where it started. Playing the original Vice City before GTA 6 launches will give you the ultimate before-and-after perspective. The 80s soundtrack alone is worth the trip. Just be prepared for 2002-era controls.
FAQ
What's the best game like GTA 6?
Red Dead Redemption 2 is the closest in quality and design philosophy (same studio). Cyberpunk 2077 post-2.0 is the closest in urban open-world setting. Neither fully replicates GTA's unique blend of satire, sandbox freedom, and crime narrative.
Updated April 2026. Based on trailer analysis, leaks, and franchise history.