Is playing GTA 6 cheating on your partner? A TikTok argument says yes, and it's spreading
Dubai: Rockstar spent last week showing off Grand Theft Auto VI in detail, and the topic that has travelled the most is not a weapon, a car or a heist. It is hand-holding. The game's two protagonists, Jason and Lucia, are in a relationship the player can actively nurture. You can take them on dates, commit crimes together, text back and forth. A section of social media has decided that nurturing…
A recent TikTok argument has sparked a debate over whether playing Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) while in a real-life relationship is considered cheating. The controversy stems from the game's introduction of a romantic subplot featuring two protagonists, Jason and Lucia, who can maintain a relationship that the player can actively nurture. Players can go on dates, commit crimes together, and text back and forth with their virtual partner, Lucia.
The argument gained traction after Rockstar released an extended gameplay look for GTA VI on August 27, 2026. TikTok creator Shelby Haas took issue with the game's commitment to maintaining a relationship, stating that the game encourages infidelity by making players feel obliged to prioritize their virtual partner over their real-life partner.
Haas concluded with the statement, "Don't let your boyfriend or fiancé or husband play GTA VI." Her fiancé, Alex Eubank, responded by saying he would consider not playing the game if it bothered his partner, but ultimately decided to disregard his partner's concerns.
Other creators went even further, labeling the act of playing GTA VI with a girlfriend as outright infidelity. The pushback against this perspective was swift, with many arguing that the Sims series has allowed players to build virtual families for decades without triggering similar panic. They also pointed out that the relationship aspect in GTA VI is optional, as players can choose to pursue it or skip it altogether without affecting their loyalty in the game.
Rockstar North co-studio head Rob Nelson addressed the controversy, explaining that the relationship option in the game gives players a protective, custodial feeling, which the studio didn't anticipate. He acknowledged that physical intimacy is important in a relationship but stated that the studio is still working on how to handle it. Rockstar has not yet provided a clear stance on the matter, but the game is set to release on November 19, 2026.
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