Rockstar Games.
The name alone conjures up images of sprawling open worlds, unforgettable characters, and maybe just a *little* bit of mayhem.
From the gritty streets of Liberty City to the dusty plains of the Wild West, Rockstar has consistently delivered experiences that stick with us long after the credits roll.
But what’s on the horizon?
Let’s dive into the evolution of Rockstar’s iconic protagonists, the hype surrounding Borderlands 4, and the looming shadow of Grand Theft Auto VI.
Ready to drop in?
The Rockstar Evolution: When Protagonists Get Old (And Sometimes Don’t)
Let’s be real, Rockstar protagonists aren’t exactly known for living long, peaceful lives.
More often than not, they’re caught in a whirlwind of violence and questionable choices.
Yet, as the studio has evolved, so too have their leading characters.
Gone are *only* the days of pure youthful recklessness; now we’re seeing grizzled veterans grappling with the consequences of their past.
- Johnny Klebitz (GTA IV: The Lost and Damned): Born in ’74, Johnny was riding high with The Lost Motorcycle Club at 34.
Surviving the events of his own episode only to meet a brutal end at the hands of Trevor in GTA 5 at 39?
Ouch.
Talk about a rough birthday. - Tommy Vercetti (GTA: Vice City): Arriving in ’86, Tommy was roughly 35 years old.
He defied expectations and, against all odds, survived.
Born in 1951, imagine if he made it to 2025?
He’d be 74!
A testament to surviving the neon-soaked carnage. - Arthur Morgan (Red Dead Redemption 2): Born in 1863, Arthur’s story in 1899 paints a man confronting the cost of his outlaw lifestyle.
At 36, he was already nearing “old age” by those standards.
Sadly, TB cut his journey short, a tragic end for a complex character. - John Marston (Red Dead Redemption): Born in 1873, John was dealing with a lifetime of tough decisions.
By 1911, at the age of 38, he faced his past head-on.
The Wild West wasn’t kind, but John’s resilience made him a legend. - Trevor Philips (GTA V): No one *really* knows Trevor’s exact age, but given clues in GTA 5, he’s estimated to be in his mid-40s.
Mentally disturbed, incredibly violent and terrifying.
Enough said, right? - Max Payne (Max Payne 3): Born in ’65, Max was showing his age by 2011.
Pills and booze just to get out of bed?
Sounds like a hard life catching up.
By 2012, at 47, the hope was that he could finally embrace healing after a long journey. - Michael De Santa (GTA V): Born in 1965, Michael was 48 during GTA 5’s story.
Last heard of in 2021, still producing movies, making him 56.
The oldest playable Rockstar protagonist so far.
It’s clear that Rockstar’s storytelling has matured, mirroring the players who grew up with their games.
These protagonists, with their battle scars and world-weary attitudes, add a layer of depth rarely seen in the genre.
Is this the direction Rockstar will continue to take?
Only time will tell.
Borderlands 4: Looting and Shooting on a New Planet
Speaking of evolving franchises, Borderlands 4 is gearing up for its September 23 release, and the hype is real.
Gearbox is promising a seamless and expansive experience, especially given it’s designed for current-gen consoles and PC.
But is it just more of the same, or is there something genuinely new under the hood?
According to Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford, they’re aiming for a unique blend of expansive exploration and the series’ signature combat dynamics.
“We care so deeply about combat dynamics and care so deeply about that moment-to-moment feeling,” Pitchford stated.
So, while it might not be an “open world” in the traditional sense, expect a sprawling landscape filled with loot and mayhem.
Here’s a quick rundown of what we know:
- Release Date: September 23, 2025
- Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Setting: Kairos, a wartorn planet with time manipulation rumors.
- Antagonist: The Timekeeper, a dictator aiming for “perfect world order.”
- Vault Hunters: Four new playable characters, each with unique skills.
And just like before, *billions* of different weapons will be available to collect!
So get ready for some toilet humor and crazy guns.
If that hasn’t changed it wouldn’t be Borderlands!
But will the story emphasize the fun gameplay or get lost in the mythology?
We can only hope.
GTA 6: The Elephant in the Room
Let’s not beat around the bush: all eyes are still firmly fixed on Grand Theft Auto VI, slated for release in Fall 2025.
The anticipation is palpable, especially considering GTA 5 is one of the best-selling games ever.
Can GTA 6 live up to the hype?
The pressure is definitely on.
In the meantime, Rockstar is keeping busy.
PGA TOUR 2K25 will be released first, launching on February 28, followed by WWE 2K25 on March 14.
Later, in the summer, Mafia The Old Country will take gamers back into the gritty world of organised crime
Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, is projecting significant sales growth in 2026 and 2027, fueled by these major franchises.
But make no mistake, GTA 6 is the crown jewel.
What story will it tell?
Who will be the next iconic protagonist?
The questions are endless!
Final Thoughts
From aging protagonists to new looter-shooter adventures and the ever-present buzz of GTA 6, Rockstar Games and its parent company, Take-Two, are poised for a monumental year.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, there’s plenty to be excited about.
One thing’s for sure: the world of gaming will be watching closely.
Are you ready for the ride?
Frequently Asked Questions About Rockstar Games’ Upcoming Releases
When is GTA 6 expected to be released?
Grand Theft Auto VI is slated for release in Fall 2025.
What is the release date for Borderlands 4?
Borderlands 4 is scheduled to be released on September 23, 2025.
What platforms will Borderlands 4 be available on?
Borderlands 4 will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Who is the antagonist in Borderlands 4?
The antagonist in Borderlands 4 is The Timekeeper, a dictator aiming for “perfect world order.”
What other games are Rockstar and Take-Two releasing before GTA 6?
Before GTA 6, Rockstar is releasing PGA TOUR 2K25 on February 28, WWE 2K25 on March 14, and Mafia The Old Country in the summer.
The Future Looks Bright for Rockstar Fans
With a lineup of anticipated releases and ongoing evolution of storytelling, Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive are set to make waves.
From Borderlands 4 to the looming GTA 6, gamers have plenty to look forward to.
What To Do Next
- Stay updated on GTA 6 news and rumors.
- Pre-order Borderlands 4 to secure your copy.
- Check out PGA TOUR 2K25 and WWE 2K25 for more gaming experiences.