As anticipation builds for 2025’s biggest gaming titles, GTA 6 and the Nintendo Switch 2 sit at the forefront. The former marks a highly awaited installment in the iconic Grand Theft Auto series, while the latter serves as the successor to the beloved Nintendo Switch. Nevertheless, it is important to note that GTA 6 is currently set to launch exclusively on the latest generation of consoles—namely, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
Many gamers are hopeful for a potential release on the upcoming handheld console, but the likelihood of this happening appears slim. In this article, we explore three primary reasons why Nintendo Switch 2 may not be able to offer GTA 6.
Reasons Why Nintendo Switch 2 Might Not Receive GTA 6
1. Technological Limitations
The Nintendo Switch 2, being a handheld device, often faces inherent technological constraints. While the console’s library boasts impressive titles such as Elden Ring, the forthcoming Borderlands 4, and the infamous Cyberpunk 2077, there exist concerns regarding its capability to manage the demands of a sprawling open-world game like GTA 6.
Critics might argue that if the Switch 2 can support Cyberpunk 2077, it should theoretically handle GTA 6 as well. However, based on the initial trailer’s footage, Rockstar Games’ next offering could demand more resources than its predecessors. It’s worth mentioning that while Cyberpunk 2077 is available on previous generation consoles, GTA 6 has not been confirmed for platforms such as the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One.
The original Nintendo Switch had notable titles like The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption, yet it notably lacked a version of GTA 5, an immensely detailed and expansive game, further raising doubts about the Switch 2’s chances.
2. Lack of Handheld Ports for Mainstream Installments
Throughout its illustrious history since 1997, the Grand Theft Auto franchise has introduced an array of games; however, only a handful of handheld adaptations have been produced. Iconic titles such as GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas were primarily launched on PCs and major consoles, with mobile versions emerging only years after their initial release.
While titles like GTA Vice City Stories and GTA Chinatown Wars found their way onto handhelds, they do not carry the same weight as the major installments of the series. Notably, neither GTA 4 nor GTA 5 saw releases on smaller devices either. Given this established pattern, it seems plausible that Rockstar Games might choose to exclude a version of GTA 6 for the Switch 2.
3. Sustainability Concerns with Ongoing Updates
While the release of GTA 6 has not yet confirmed a multiplayer component akin to GTA Online, the success of the latter indicates a likely incorporation. Rockstar is likely to roll out regular content updates over time, similar to their approach with GTA 5’s multiplayer mode.
However, these constant updates may adversely affect the game’s performance over time. Players on PS4 and Xbox One have voiced concerns regarding performance issues, making a potential GTA 6 port to Nintendo Switch 2 seem increasingly impractical and unsustainable as content expands.
Just as the original Nintendo Switch did not contain GTA 5, it appears that the Switch 2 may similarly miss out on GTA 6.