Could GTA 6 teach Gen Z how to be in a relationship?

GTA 6, the highly anticipated sequel to the Grand Theft Auto series, is introducing a novel feature for players: an optional relationship system between protagonists Jason and Lucia. This dating mechanic, revealed in a recent gameplay demonstration, may be a new challenge for a generation of Gen Z adults who have had limited dating experience in their adolescence.

With the game allowing players to plan activities, communicate over text, and make choices that affect the closeness of their relationship, it could be providing some players with their first taste of maintaining a relationship. Many are excited about the prospect of dating Lucia, with one Instagram commenter speculating that she could become a player's first girlfriend.

Rockstar's relationship system emphasizes ordinary relationship activities like answering texts, running errands, and trying new activities, rather than relying solely on dialogue responses. While players can opt out of the romance if they prefer, the system aims to provide a more realistic experience of what it takes to maintain a relationship.