5 Features From GTA 4 That Are Officially Returning in GTA 6

GTA 6 is bringing back several gameplay elements that made earlier entries in the franchise memorable. From the return of the six-star wanted level to more realistic vehicle physics, Rockstar Games appears ready to combine the series’ classic mechanics with a more detailed open world.

To be more precise, here are five features from GTA 4 that are returning in GTA 6, ranked.

5 Friendship-Style Activities Return Through Jason and Lucia

Friendship mechanics from GTA 4 are returning | Credit: Rockstar Games

One of GTA 4’s defining features is its friendship system, which allowed Niko Bellic to spend time with characters such as Roman, Little Jacob, and Brucie outside the main story. Players could visit restaurants and participate in activities like visiting restaurants and playing darts to strengthen their relationships.

GTA 6 revisits this idea through Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos. Their relationship is central to the narrative, and spending time together is an important part of their partnership. Rather than simply offering optional entertainment, their bond gives players another reason to explore Leonida beyond the main missions.

4 Realistic Vehicle Physics

Realistic vehicle physics | Credit: Rockstar Games

Vehicle handling has always played an important role in the Grand Theft Auto series, but GTA 4 remains particularly memorable for its weight-based driving physics. Cars leaned during sharp turns, and collisions felt different from those in earlier entries.

GTA 6 aims to deliver a more detailed driving experience, supported by its advanced presentation and vehicle systems. Players can expect an emphasis on believable movement and a more immersive relationship between vehicles and the world.

3 Pickable Everyday Items

Players can pick everyday items | Credit: Rockstar Games

GTA 4 made Liberty City feel more interactive through environmental objects and items that could be picked up or used in certain situations. These small details helped make the world feel less like a static backdrop.

In the upcoming entry, Rockstar is expanding environmental detail and how players interact with the world. Everyday objects contribute to that sense of immersion, and a perfect example is the full range of pickable items in a simple fridge, as shown in the game’s official extended look.

2 Crouching

Crouching is likely coming back in GTA 6 | Credit: Rockstar Games

Crouching can make a significant difference during stealth sequences and combat encounters. While GTA 4 included crouching-related movement, its cover system was especially important for protecting Niko during firefights.

GTA 6 builds on Rockstar’s more tactical approach to combat, with cover-based encounters and additional combat mechanics available in gameplay footage. These systems relate well to Jason’s official military training, which was further showcased in October 15’s official Launch Trailer, and the crouch mechanic is likely making a return to help in the more spec-op-styled missions.

1 Six-Star Wanted Level

Six-Star Wanted Levels are back in the game | Credit: Rockstar Games

The six-star wanted level is the clearest confirmed returning feature on this list. In GTA 4, reaching the maximum wanted level triggered an intense police response, turning ordinary escapes into major challenges.

GTA 6 brings back the six-star system after GTA 5 limited wanted levels to five stars. Its police mechanics also put a greater emphasis on identifying suspects and tracking criminal activity. For longtime fans, the return of six stars is a welcome connection to the franchise’s earlier games.

Which GTA 4 feature are you the most excited to see the return of? Make sure to let us know in the comments below!