GTA 6: Can you cheat on someone with a video game character?

The upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto 6 has reignited a debate that has existed since the dawn of gaming: whether it is considered cheating to invest significant time and effort into a romantic relationship with a video game character. In the latest instalment, players can develop a bond with one of two main characters, Jason and Lucia, through various in-game activities, including spending time together, holding hands, and responding to each other's texts.

While the relationship does not have to culminate in a full-on romance, the connection between the characters is a central feature of the game. A recent poll conducted by YouGov found that about 6% of British adults would consider such a fictional relationship to be cheating, with women being more likely to view it negatively than men.

Alli Franco, a 30-year-old content creator with a large following on TikTok, expressed dismay at the debate, comparing the situation to having a crush on a TV star. She argued that if a partner is insecure about a fictional character, there needs to be reflection, as it is similar to having an out-of-scenario infatuation. The more realistic and dynamic the game relationships become, the more difficult it is for players to become emotionally invested, according to gaming expert Arienne Ferchaud.

Ferchaud believes that with advancements in artificial intelligence, future characters may be able to remember past interactions, react to player actions, and build evolving relationships, making games feel even more immersive. However, she argues that even with AI, characters remain fictional and should not be considered a genuine substitute for a real-life partner.