Why GTA Online Players Think Its New Anti-Cheat May Hint At GTA 5’s Future

GTA Online was recently updated with new anti-cheat software, and some players think this move could be a sign that GTA 5‘s PC port may be in for a serious upgrade. If you’re a little confused regarding the connection between GTA Online’s new BattleEye anti-cheat software and GTA 5’s graphics on PC, you’re not alone, but the theory isn’t as off-the-wall as it sounds.

First, some history: The PC port of Rockstar’s iconic GTA 5 arrived in 2015. Years later, in 2022, the game was released for current-gen consoles: the Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Hopeful fans of the franchise believe the move to outfit GTA Online with BattleEye anti-cheat could be a sort of preparation for “Gen9,” a rumored PC release of the same updates GTA 5 previously received on current-gen consoles

Hardcore fans of the GTA franchise are no stranger to wild rumors and theories that may seem like a stretch, but GTA’s eagle-eyed players often do catch on to small details that point to something bigger. The theory is also backed up by leaks, including a folder players uncovered on Rockstar’s website titled “SITES-GTA-GEN9.”

Assuming the Gen 9 update is, in fact, real, there’s still no telling when it might arrive. Like all leaked content (especially content regarding GTA), the Gen 9 theory should be taken with a grain of salt, and PC players certainly shouldn’t hold their breath. (But if your thirst for fact-based GTA info has yet to be sated, check out everything we know about GTA 6.)