New information circulating online suggests that Rockstar Games invested an enormous sum — between $200 and $300 million — solely into the development and simulation of water systems for GTA VI.

According to reports shared by VGT Gaming News, a dedicated team of around 20 of Rockstar’s top engineers is working exclusively on water physics and rendering. Their goal is to push realism far beyond anything previously seen in the series.

Next-Level Water Simulation

The water system in GTA VI is reportedly being designed down to the smallest details. This includes realistic wave behavior when interacting with boats and characters, advanced physics-based movement, and large-scale natural events such as hurricanes, flooding, and other extreme weather conditions.
For the first time in the franchise, the game is expected to feature dynamic tides, along with activities like surfing and other water-based recreation, further reinforcing the importance of aquatic environments in gameplay.

Why Water Matters More Than Ever

With Vice City serving as a modern analogue of Miami, water is not just a visual element but a core part of the world’s identity. Given the coastal setting, failing to deliver a deeply simulated ocean would feel like a major missed opportunity.
Reports also claim that the overall budget of GTA VI is approaching $2 billion, making such an investment in water technology far more believable within the scope of the project.
If these details prove accurate, GTA VI could set a new benchmark for water simulation in open-world games, potentially delivering the most advanced and immersive aquatic systems the genre has ever seen.