GTA V Source Code Leak (February 2024) [Updated]

The Grand Theft Auto (GTA) community was gearing up for the highly anticipated debut trailer of GTA VI, only to be sidetracked by a significant event: the leak of the GTA V source code around Christmas 2023. This leak, reportedly sold for $2,000 USD and released by a disgruntled group member, has unearthed intriguing details about cancelled DLCs, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and potential implications for the upcoming GTA VI.

The GTA V Source Leaked Source Code and Cancelled DLCs

In the leaked source code, information about eight cancelled GTA V DLCs emerged. Despite Rockstar Games’ initial plans to release story mode DLCs in 2014, these projects never saw the light of day. The leak shed light on the Agent Trevor DLC, with a screenshot hinting at appearances by characters such as Agent 14 and Karen Daniels, Niko’s girlfriend from GTA IV. Speculations also suggest space-themed missions within this unreleased DLC.

How it Got Leaked?

The source code leak can be traced back to a teenage hacker who infiltrated Rockstar Games in September 2022. The hacker not only released gameplay videos of GTA VI but also threatened to expose the source code of both GTA VI and GTA V. The subsequent sale and distribution of the source code on the dark web resulted in a significant blow, causing $5 million in damages to Rockstar Games.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Unseen Images of RAGE Engine

Within the leaked files, never-before-seen images of the RAGE engine were discovered, providing an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at Rockstar Games’ development process. Early images and assets from GTA V, Red Dead Redemption, and even the cancelled Agent game were unveiled, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of Rockstar’s gaming technology.

Internal Emails and Development Notes

The leaked source code also contained internal emails among Rockstar Games employees discussing game development and release notes for RAGE engine updates. These insights provide a glimpse into the meticulous process behind creating some of the most iconic titles in gaming history.

Potential Implications for GTA VI and GTA Online

GTA VI Script Reference

Some scripts related to GTA VI have been spotted in the leak, containing text strings referencing elements from the upcoming game. While concerns have been raised, there is currently no indication that this will negatively impact Rockstar’s development of GTA VI.

Impact on GTA Online

Speculation has arisen regarding the potential impact on GTA V and GTA Online due to increased accessibility to the leaked source code. However, Rockstar Games has been aware of the situation for over a year, and as of now, there have been no major damages reported in GTA Online. The issues are primarily limited to the PC version, with current-gen consoles remaining well-protected against malicious hacks.

Conclusion

The GTA V source code leak has undoubtedly stirred controversy within the gaming community, uncovering cancelled DLCs, providing behind-the-scenes glimpses, and raising questions about the potential impact on future releases. As the story continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Rockstar Games will address and navigate the aftermath of this significant security breach.