Russia May Ban GTA 6 Over Leaked “Immoral” Content Concerns

Russia is considering a ban on the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto VI due to concerns over “immoral content.” The game, developed by Rockstar Games, is scheduled for release on November 19, 2026. Among the leaked details is the inclusion of male strippers, which has raised alarms among Russian officials.

Concerns Over GTA VI’s Content

Mikhail Ivanov, deputy chairman of the World Russian People’s Council, has voiced strong objections regarding the game. He described the Grand Theft Auto series as a “dangerous tool of influence,” criticizing its content as detrimental to societal morals.

Call for Censorship

• Ivanov highlighted the inclusion of male strip clubs as particularly offensive.
• He argued that such content represents a violation of basic moral norms and traditional values.
• Ivanov urged developers to create a version of GTA VI that is free of “immoral content” for the Russian market.

This isn’t the first time certain games have faced restrictions in Russia. In 2023, several Middle Eastern countries banned Overwatch 2’s Pride event, showcasing a trend of altering game content based on cultural and moral standards.

Implications for Rockstar

The controversy around GTA VI reflects ongoing tensions between gaming content and local cultural norms. While it’s uncertain if Rockstar will produce a modified version for Russia, the game’s anticipated launch is expected to generate significant discussion.

With the game’s release date approaching, further developments are anticipated regarding Rockstar’s response to these concerns. As discussions on moral standards in gaming evolve, the fate of GTA VI in Russia remains uncertain.