GTA VI combat changes the rules: no more default auto-aim, meet the Criminal Profile

Combat in GTA VI moves away from what we knew, according to Red Bull’s summary of what was shown in the Extended Look and the preview sessions. Classic auto-aim is no longer active by default: instead there is a more flexible, customisable aiming system. The new Focus ability slows down time and highlights enemy weak points, letting you target specific body parts, in a mechanic reminiscent of Max Payne.

Tied to this is the new Criminal Profile system, which Rockstar stresses is not an honour system like Red Dead Redemption 2’s: it doesn’t measure whether you’re good or evil, but how you commit your crimes. A carefully planned heist without unnecessary casualties is judged differently from a robbery that descends into chaos. The known tiers run from Professional to Aggressive, Violent and Psycho, and there appears to be a further tier whose consequences can become irreversible for the rest of your playthrough. Jason and Lucia have separate profiles, so your choices can shape them into very different criminals: one calculated, the other unpredictable.

Weapon carrying changes too: you can equip two handguns and two long guns, but only one long gun rides on your back; the other must be held, visible, and that affects how NPCs react to you. A weapon on your back is generally tolerated; a ready-to-fire weapon in plain sight causes fear and attracts attention. Weapons also have more weight and recoil, making sustained, accurate fire much harder than in GTA V: the days of effortlessly spraying bullets with perfect aim are over.