Rockstar

Rockstar Games has rolled out another quick server-side patch for GTA Online, released on February 19, 2026 (live as of February 20). This is the second background update in just one week, showing Rockstar’s aggressive stance on maintaining game integrity following the massive “A Safehouse in the Hills” mansion DLC back in December 2025. The update requires no download — it applies automatically the next time you launch GTA Online. The focus this time? Shutting down several popular exploits that were letting players gain unfair advantages in public sessions. Full Patch Notes (Confirmed via Community Insider Tez2)Fixed an issue that caused certain personal vehicles to be blacklisted while matchmaking via On Call in Freemode Patched “Michael’s Special Ability in MP” glitch Patched Facility Vehicle God Mode glitch Patched RC Bandito God Mode glitch Patched Mansion OTR (Off The Radar) glitch Patched Mansion Car Dupe glitch These fixes hit especially hard on god mode exploits involving Facility vehicles and the RC Bandito, which had become a major annoyance in PvP-heavy lobbies. The Mansion Car Dupe and OTR glitches — both tied to the new luxury properties — are also now closed, protecting the in-game economy and fairness for everyone. One Persistent Annoyance Still Not FixedMansion owners are still dealing with an irritating audio bug introduced by the Lunar New Year lantern decorations. The decorative lanterns create a constant looping fire crackling sound inside your property. Social media has been flooded with complaints, but this one didn’t make the cut in today’s patch. Rockstar is expected to address it in a future update. Why This Update MattersRockstar has now pushed out more than half a dozen patches (background + full downloads) since the mansions dropped. The company appears determined to keep GTA Online stable and cheat-free while players enjoy the new high-end content and seasonal events. This patch lands right in the middle of the Lunar New Year Event Week (February 19–25, 2026), which features double GTA$ & RP on several businesses, so the timing is perfect — clean sessions while you grind those bonuses. Quick Tips for PlayersLog in and test your Facility vehicles, RC Bandito, and mansion features to confirm the fixes are active. If you were relying on any of the now-patched glitches… sorry, they’re gone. Still hearing fire sounds in your mansion? You’re not alone — expect another background update soon. Rockstar is clearly listening to the community and moving fast. With the game in such an active post-DLC phase, more patches are almost guaranteed in the coming weeks. Did any of these exploits ruin your sessions before today? How’s the mansion life treating you now that dupes are dead? Let us know in the comments! View full article

Rockstar Games is surprising GTA Online players with a generous, no-strings-attached cash bonus promotion delivered straight to select inboxes. Announced via targeted emails from Rockstar Propaganda on February 19, 2026, the offer lets players collect up to GTA$1,500,000 simply by completing sell missions over the next three weeks. This comes at the perfect time following the December 2025 “A Safehouse in the Hills” update, which introduced luxurious new mansion properties. The bonus money is clearly designed to help players recoup some of those hefty real estate costs—or fund their next big purchase. Promotion BreakdownThe deal is straightforward and player-friendly: Week 1: February 19 – 25, 2026 → GTA$500,000 Week 2: February 26 – March 4, 2026 → GTA$500,000 Week 3: March 5 – 11, 2026 → GTA$500,000 Total possible bonus: GTA$1,500,000 According to the email and multiple player reports (including screenshots shared on X), completing just one qualifying sell mission per week is enough to trigger each GTA$500,000 bonus. The money is automatically deposited into your Maze Bank account within 72 hours of completing the sale. Qualifying Sell MissionsAny of the following business sell missions count toward the promotion: Special Cargo Sell Missions (CEO Office) Vehicle Cargo Sell Missions (CEO Office) Gunrunning / Arms Trafficking Sell Missions Nightclub Warehouse product offloads Motorcycle Club (MC) Business product deliveries Air Freight Cargo Sell Missions Acid Lab Sell Missions (especially popular for quick solo runs) How to Claim Your Free GTA$Check your email – Look for the subject line “Just for You: Get Up To GTA$1,500,000 in GTA Online Bonuses” from Rockstar Propaganda. (It may land in spam/junk folders.) Log into GTA Online during each weekly window. Complete one sell mission from the eligible list above. Wait up to 72 hours for the bonus to hit your Maze Bank account. Important note: This appears to be a targeted promotion. Not every player has received the email yet, even those subscribed to Rockstar emails. However, community reports and sites like Sportskeeda and Gameranx suggest it may roll out more broadly—worth trying a sell mission regardless. Pro Tips to Maximize the DealThis week (Feb 19–25) already features 2X GTA$ and RP on Counterfeit Cash Sell Missions and Street Dealer Sales as part of the Lunar New Year event week. If you own a Counterfeit Cash Factory, knock out your promotion sale while earning double rewards. Easiest options for casual players: Acid Lab sells (quick, solo-friendly) or Nightclub Warehouse goods (passive buildup). Stack with friends or solo—most of these missions scale well either way. Whether you’re a high-rolling CEO, a patched-up Biker President, or just someone looking to afford that shiny new mansion in the hills, this is one of the easiest free-money handouts Rockstar has offered in months. Fire up GTA Online, make that sale, and watch the cash roll in. What are you spending your GTA$1.5 million on first? Let us know in the comments! View full article

Rockstar Games is ringing in the Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse) with a fresh week of festivities in GTA Online. Running from February 19th through February 25th, 2026, this event brings festive flair, big money multipliers, sweet vehicle deals, and brand-new content to Los Santos. Whether you're a longtime Los Santos veteran or just logging in for the free goodies, there's something for every player this week. Festive Vibes Hit Los SantosMansions across the map are decked out with glowing red lanterns for that authentic Lunar New Year atmosphere. Yuanbao Collectibles (those shiny golden ingots) have returned and are scattered across San Andreas—grab them for quick cash and RP while the event is live. Pro tip: The Valentine’s Day “Cheater” random event has been temporarily disabled to make room for the new celebrations. New Content: Senora Derby Stunt RaceThe star of the show is the brand-new Senora Derby Lunar New Year Stunt Race! Jump behind the wheel of high-performance rides and tackle this explosive, fireworks-filled course packed with massive jumps and cinematic stunts. You can jump straight into it via the Rockstar Social Club link or find it in the Stunt Race menu in-game. Login Rewards – Free Horse Gear & Exclusive TeeSimply log in anytime before March 4th, 2026 and you’ll automatically receive: The Red Year of the Horse Tee (a limited-edition shirt featuring a rearing horse) All Horse Masks (free forever) All Horse Tattoos (free forever) These horse-themed items are perfect for showing off your Lunar New Year spirit in any session. 2x & Double Rewards Across Multiple ModesThis week’s payout schedule is stacked: 2x GTA$ and RP on Community Combat Series 2x GTA$ and RP on Biker Clubhouse Contracts, MC Work, and MC Challenges 2x GTA$ on Counterfeit Cash Sell Missions 2x GTA$ on Street Dealer Sales Double Rewards on FIB Priority File missions (specifically The Black Box File) Perfect time to grind Biker businesses or run quick sells with your crew. Massive Discounts (Up to 40% Off)Rockstar is slashing prices to help you expand your empire and garage: 40% off Counterfeit Cash Factories + all upgrades and modifications 30% off the following vehicles: Canis Terminus Declasse Drift Tampa Declasse Walton L35 Stock Dinka Jester Classic HVY Insurgent Pick-Up Ocelot Jugular Vapid Caracara Vapid Retinue Mk II Vapid Slamtruck Vulcar Nebula Turbo Western Company Cargobob (both variants) Time to upgrade your MC businesses and fill your garage with discounted muscle and utility vehicles. Weekly Prizes & ChallengesCasino Podium Vehicle: Karin Sultan RS Classic (worth $1,789,000) – spin the wheel daily (GTA+ members get 2 spins every 24 hours) Prize Ride Challenge: Place in the top 4 of any LS Car Meet Series race to win the Grotti Stinger GT (worth $875,000) Weekly Challenge: Win just 2 Stunt Races to earn $100,000 cash Premium Race: Art to Art HSW Time Trial: Ron Alternates RC Time Trial: Cypress Flats Regular Time Trial: Maze Bank Arena Podium Vehicle of the Week: Karin Sultan RS Classic Salvage Yard Robberies This WeekThe Gangbanger Robbery → Dewbauchee Champion The Podium Robbery → Karin Everon The McTony Robbery → BF Weevil Gun Van Inventory (Discounts for GTA+ Members)The Gun Van is stocked with: Military Rifle, Combat Shotgun, Battle Rifle, Homing Launcher, MG Proximity Mines, Molotovs, Sticky Bombs Full range of Body Armor (Super Light to Super Heavy) GTA+ members get deeper discounts on everything. GTA+ Members Get Even MoreSubscribers enjoy extra spins, bigger Gun Van discounts, and the full February 2026 GTA+ monthly rewards package (check Rockstar’s site for the complete list). Ready to Celebrate?Log into GTA Online today, grab your free Horse gear, test out the explosive new Senora Derby Stunt Race, and stack those double payouts while the discounts last. The Year of the Horse is off to a roaring start in Los Santos! View full article

When Capcom launched Resident Evil 3 Remake in April 2020, it wowed players with breathtaking visuals, heart-pounding Nemesis pursuits, and a faithful recreation of Jill Valentine’s frantic escape from zombie-infested Raccoon City. Yet longtime fans of the 1999 classic Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (also known as Biohazard 3: Last Escape) felt shortchanged. Entire iconic locations vanished, the campaign felt shorter and more linear, and key exploration, puzzles, and story elements were cut to streamline the experience for modern audiences. Now, one dedicated modder is working to right those wrongs—and then some. Enter Resident Evil 3 Last Escape, a massive, in-development PC mod that restores nearly all the content removed from the 2020 remake while adding brand-new locations, overhauling gameplay systems, and creating what promises to be the ultimate survival-horror reimagining of Jill’s nightmare. Restoring the Classics, Building Something BiggerAccording to progress shared via the modder’s YouTube channel (@RE3_Remake_LastEscape) and coverage on sites like DSOGaming and Wccftech, the project goes far beyond simple fixes: Restored original content — Full access to the legendary Clock Tower, the Park, the Disused Plant, the Cemetery, the Raccoon Police Department (RPD), and more. The very first Nemesis encounter has also been reworked—replacing the remake’s dramatic introduction with a zombie ambush and explosion sequence straight out of the 1999 game. Brand-new expansions — Extended city blocks in Uptown, a fully playable Jack’s Bar (previously just a cutscene backdrop), and redesigned level layouts that encourage genuine exploration instead of corridor-to-corridor progression. Gameplay overhauls — A reworked crafting system with multiple new gunpowder types, fresh puzzles, adjusted item placement and progression, and entirely new or expanded Nemesis boss fights. Classic survival tension — The iconic Ink Ribbon save system (limited ink ribbons that make every typewriter moment count) has been added, echoing both the original games and Resident Evil 2 Remake. In the modder’s own words: Progress Videos Already Turning HeadsThe modder has been dropping short showcase videos that have the community buzzing: Jack’s Bar – Watch Jill explore the once-off-limits watering hole. Uptown expansion – Brand-new streets and alleyways that make Raccoon City feel alive (and terrifying). New items – Including Jill’s classic Samurai Edge handgun. Ink Ribbon system – In action, complete with that nostalgic typewriter clack. SAMURAI EDGE (Part 3) Jill Valentine Model │Surviving Handgun of Raccoon City (Resident Evil 3) The videos are short but polished, showing smooth integration with the RE Engine and impressive attention to detail. Fans on Reddit, NeoGAF, and YouTube comments are already calling it “the mod RE3 Remake deserved” and “the ultimate way to replay Jill’s story.” No Release Date Yet—But the Hype Is RealAs with any ambitious mod of this scale, there is currently no ETA or download link. The project is clearly in active development, and the modder continues to post regular updates. When it does drop, it will be for the PC version of Resident Evil 3 Remake (Steam, Epic, etc.). The timing couldn’t be better: with Resident Evil Requiem (one of 2026’s most anticipated titles) on the horizon, fans are hungry for more Raccoon City content—and this mod is delivering exactly that. residentevil.fandom.com Hall | Resident Evil Wiki | Fandom Clock Tower interior from the original 1999 game — soon to be fully explorable in the remake thanks to this mod. Why This MattersThe Resident Evil franchise has one of the most passionate and talented modding communities in gaming. From HD texture overhauls to full reimaginings, fans have kept these classics alive and evolving for decades. Resident Evil 3 Last Escape stands out as one of the most ambitious attempts yet to “fix” a remake that many felt sacrificed too much of the original’s soul. Whether you’re a purist who still prefers the PS1 version or a newcomer who wants more bang for your buck out of the 2020 remake, this mod could completely change how you experience Jill Valentine’s last escape. Stay tuned to the RESIDENT EVIL 3 LAST ESCAPE YouTube channel for the latest footage. Once the mod launches, it will likely become essential playing for any Resident Evil fan on PC. What do you think—will this be the definitive version of RE3 Remake? Drop your thoughts below, and keep an eye on this page for future updates!

In a fresh wave of scrutiny hitting one of gaming’s biggest players, Rockstar Games’ latest UK company accounts have thrust the studio into the spotlight — not for its blockbuster titles, but for its aggressive use of government tax incentives. The fan-site RockstarINTEL broke down the numbers on February 18, 2026, under the headline “Rockstar Games Financials Revealed: ‘Grand Theft Tax’ Scandal Sparks Urgent Demands,” reigniting debates about corporate welfare, worker rights, and the true cost of keeping GTA and Red Dead in the UK. The Numbers Don’t Lie — Or Do They?According to Rockstar Games UK Ltd’s accounts for the financial year ending March 31, 2025 (filed earlier this month and publicly available via Companies House): Turnover: £508 million — the fourth consecutive year above the half-billion-pound mark. Pre-tax profits: More than £87 million (second-highest on record). Dividends paid out: £85 million. Video Games Tax Relief (VGTR) claimed: Over £70 million (precisely £70.7m plus £7m in HMRC interest for late payments). Additional R&D tax credits: £1.9 million. Zoom out, and the picture gets even bigger. Since the VGTR scheme launched in April 2014, Rockstar has pocketed a staggering £504 million in total relief — money intended to support “culturally British” game development. Over the past decade, the UK subsidiary has reported cumulative profits exceeding £600–604 million and paid out more than £400 million in dividends. The accounts note that much of the revenue comes from “provision of research and development functions” to parent company Take-Two Interactive in New York. Notably, no major new title has launched since 2018 (Red Dead Redemption 2), yet the company continues to claim relief on ongoing work — widely understood to include GTA VI. “Grand Theft Tax”: How a Political Soundbite Was Born The phrase “Grand Theft Tax” was coined by Tracy Gilbert, Labour MP for Edinburgh North and Leith, during a December 2025 parliamentary session. Gilbert, whose constituency includes Rockstar North’s Edinburgh studio, highlighted the £70m+ relief at a time when the company faced allegations of dismissing around 30–40 Scottish staff amid union-organizing efforts. The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which has been supporting the affected workers, has joined the fray, calling for a full review of the VGTR program. Tax Watch UK and outlets like The Scotsman have amplified the criticism, pointing out that large multinationals appear to be the biggest beneficiaries of a scheme originally designed to help smaller, independent developers. Critics argue it’s galling to see a profitable giant — whose co-founders Sam and Dan Houser sit on the UK Rich List with a combined net worth reportedly over £400 million as of early 2025 — receive hundreds of millions in public support while paying out huge dividends and facing labor disputes. Rockstar Fires BackRockstar has pushed back firmly. In a statement quoted by RockstarINTEL and earlier Scottish media: The company categorically denies any union-busting and maintains all actions comply with UK law. It also stresses that the royalties flowing through Take-Two (historically $2.5 billion between 2014–2019, much of it from GTA V) ultimately reward the creative talent behind the games. What Happens Next?The controversy has already prompted ministerial interest and calls for reform or tighter auditing of the VGTR scheme (which is set to be phased out and replaced by a new Video Games Expenditure Credit in coming years). Unions want clearer conditions tying tax relief to fair labor practices. Politicians are asking whether profitable studios with no recent releases should continue receiving such generous support. For gamers, the stakes are high: GTA VI is still the most anticipated title of the decade, and Rockstar’s UK studios (Edinburgh, Dundee, Leeds, Lincoln, and London) remain central to its development. Supporters of the scheme argue that without these incentives, major projects could drift overseas, costing British jobs and tax revenue in the long run. Whether this is genuine “scandal” or just political theater remains hotly debated. But one thing is clear: the days of unchecked, headline-grabbing tax relief for the games industry’s biggest names may be numbered. What do you think — should governments keep subsidizing billion-dollar franchises, or is it time to tighten the rules? Drop your take in the comments. In the meantime, we’ll be watching Companies House, Parliament, and Rockstar’s next moves closely. View full article

Fans of Final Fantasy IX have a delightful treat on the horizon. Square Enix has officially revealed Final Fantasy IX Picture Book: Vivi and Grandpa's Memories for the Sky, a charming 48-page illustrated hardcover diving into the origins of one of the series' most beloved characters: the timid black mage Vivi Ornitier. This new release, priced at $17.99 USD, is set to hit shelves on May 19, 2026, with preorders already live across major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and the official Square Enix store. Crafted by original FFIX team members, the book promises a "delectable addition" to the game's lore, blending wholesome storytelling with stunning artwork. A Peaceful Life Before the AdventureThe picture book's synopsis paints a cozy prequel tale: Vivi, the mysterious black mage, is fished out of the ocean by Grandpa Quan—a gourmand fisherman obsessed with perfecting his culinary skills. Initially mistaking the pint-sized mage for dinner, Quan quickly realizes his error and takes Vivi under his wing. What follows is a heartwarming slice-of-life story where the duo enjoys fine feasts, makes friends, and explores the world together, culminating in Vivi's poignant day of departure to begin his journey in Final Fantasy IX. This narrative expands on Vivi's enigmatic backstory, a fan-favorite element from the 2000 PS1 classic. Vivi's existential quest about life, mortality, and purpose remains one of FFIX's emotional cornerstones, making this book a true love letter to the game's themes. amazon.com Amazon.com: Final Fantasy IX Picture Book: Vivi and Grandpa's Memories for the Sky: 9781646094738: Aoki, Kazuhiko, Itahana, Toshiyuki: Books The cover art (noted as preliminary) features Grandpa Quan striding across a lush green field under a vast blue sky, with Vivi's hat peeking out and a dragonfly soaring nearby. A distant castle evokes FFIX's fairy-tale aesthetic, perfectly capturing the whimsical vibe. Crafted by FFIX VeteransStory by: Kazuhiko Aoki, the original event designer for Final Fantasy IX. Art by: Toshiyuki Itahana, the game's character designer. Format: Hardcover picture book, 8-5/8 x 8-5/8 inches, 48 full-color pages. ISBN: 9781646094738. Publisher: Square Enix Manga & Books. Sample pages shared by Square Enix showcase Itahana's vibrant, watercolor-style illustrations. One depicts a lavish dinner scene with Vivi and Quan at a wooden table laden with meats, fruits, and breads, surrounded by hanging herbs and a sleepy pig. Another shows a festive gathering with fireworks, villagers, and animals, hinting at community celebrations. na.store.square-enix-games.com na.store.square-enix-games.com Fan Excitement Builds on XSquare Enix Manga & Books broke the news on X (formerly Twitter), posting: "Join #FinalFantasyIX's beloved black mage Vivi as Grandpa teaches him how to live a good life! 🥟🍲 Preorder now!" The post has garnered likes, reposts, and calls for a Kindle edition, signaling strong early buzz. Outlets like ScreenRant hailed it as Vivi's "official return," while gaming sites such as Push Square and CBR amplified the hype, noting its appeal to longtime FFIX enthusiasts awaiting more content like a rumored remaster. Where to Preorder and Why It MattersSecure your copy today: Retailer Link Square Enix Store Preorder Here Amazon Preorder on Amazon Barnes & Noble Preorder at B&N For Final Fantasy IX diehards—like us here at Nexus Gaming—this book is more than merch; it's a nostalgic bridge to Gaia, reminding us why Vivi stole hearts over two decades ago. With FFIX still playable on modern platforms and rumors of enhanced ports swirling, 2026 could be a big year for fans of this timeless RPG. Don't sleep on preordering—Vivi's adventure awaits!

It sounds impossible, but Grand Theft Auto V—a game notorious for its massive storage footprint of over 100GB—has been successfully compressed to less than 2.5GB. This staggering 98% reduction isn’t an official patch from Rockstar Games, but rather an extreme optimization project by modder @OptiJogos, designed to bring the open-world giant to hardware that has no business running it. The "Ultra-Lite" TreatmentTo achieve a file size smaller than most mobile games, @OptiJogos had to take a scalpel (and occasionally a sledgehammer) to the game's assets. The visual and auditory fidelity of Los Santos has been stripped to its absolute bare bones. The compromises are extensive: Audio & Visuals: Almost all high-quality textures have been heavily compressed, and the game forces the lowest Level of Detail (LOD) models at all distances. Audio effects have largely been removed. Content Cuts: The entire story mode campaign, side missions, and cutscenes are gone. Specific massive assets, such as the North Yankton map (which alone takes up 2GB), were deleted. Map Reduction: The sprawling map of San Andreas has been trimmed down significantly. The only playable area is a specific section of Los Santos surrounding Michael De Santa’s house. Characters: You can only play as Michael; switching to Franklin or Trevor is disabled. But Does It Play?Surprisingly, yes. Despite looking like a fever dream from the PlayStation 1 era, the core DNA of GTA V remains intact. Players can still run, jump, steal vehicles, drive around the limited map, and use base-game weapons. Even the police AI and wanted system function correctly, allowing for the chaotic chases the series is known for. The project was demonstrated running on a government-issued netbook—hardware completely incapable of launching the standard version of the game—achieving a playable frame rate of around 30FPS. Why Do This? While many might view this as just a technical curiosity, the mod serves a genuine purpose for accessibility. @OptiJogos highlights that in regions like Brazil, high import taxes make modern gaming hardware prohibitively expensive for many. As a result, older, lower-spec laptops and PCs are far more common. By stripping GTA V down to its atomic weight, this mod opens the door for players on "potato" PCs to experience the sandbox mechanics of one of the world's most popular games for the first time. It is a testament to how scalable the RAGE engine can be, provided you are willing to sacrifice... well, almost everything. For those interested in testing the limits of their old hardware, the "ultra-compressed" version is available for download now, offering a unique, if blurry, window into Los Santos. View full article

The list of artists heading to Leonida is growing, with two familiar names dropping major hints about their involvement in Grand Theft Auto VI. One of the most defining characteristics of any Rockstar title is the soundtrack. From the synth-heavy vibes of Vice City to the West Coast classics of San Andreas, the radio dial is often just as important as the map itself. As anticipation builds for Grand Theft Auto VI, fans are scouring the internet for any clue about what we’ll be listening to while cruising through Leonida—and thanks to some slip-ups by the artists themselves, we have a few new leads. Both Panama and Neon Indian—artists who have previously contributed to the franchise—have all but confirmed their return for the next installment. Panama Confirms "Back To Life"The first potential reveal comes from the electronic band Panama. In an exchange spotted by community members, a fan commented on the band’s Instagram post, mentioning they had originally discovered Panama’s music through GTA V and Forza Horizon 2. The official Panama account reportedly responded with a direct confirmation: “I've got a song called 'Back To Life' I wrote with Poolside. It'll be on GTA 6.” The comment has since been deleted, a common occurrence when artists realize they may have violated a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with the notoriously secretive Rockstar Games. If true, the track "Back To Life" (a collaboration with Poolside) would fit perfectly with the sun-soaked, neon-lit aesthetic expected from the Vice City setting. Neon Indian Teases a ReturnThe second tease comes from Alan Palomo, the creative force behind Neon Indian. Palomo is no stranger to Los Santos; his track "Change of Coast" was a fan favorite in GTA V and served as the anthem for the GTA Online opening cutscene at launch. During a recent episode of his podcast, the conversation turned to his history with Rockstar Games. Reflecting on his positive experiences working with the studio, Palomo dropped a cryptic hint about the future: “It ain't the end of me and Rockstar Games. I won't… that's all I'm gonna say. I can't discuss more but, but yeah…” While less direct than Panama’s comment, the hesitation and refusal to "discuss more" is a classic sign of an artist under embargo. Given the vibe of Neon Indian’s discography, his return would be a natural fit for the game's retro-modern atmosphere. A Growing Roster of RumorsThese two indie darlings join a rapidly expanding list of artists rumored or confirmed to be attached to the project. The GTA 6 musical rumor mill already includes: ScHoolboy Q: The rapper tweeted in early 2024 implying his music would be featured. T-Pain: Revealed on a livestream that he was working with Rockstar (and consequently had to stop roleplaying on the NoPixel server). Skrilla: Claimed his track "Doot Doot 6 7" will be included. Drake: In an interview, Jermaine Dupri mentioned that the Canadian superstar might have his own radio station in the game. DJ Khaled: Leaks suggest he may also host a station. As we inch closer to the release window, the sonic landscape of GTA 6 is shaping up to be a massive mix of indie electronic, hip-hop, and pop. If these leaks are anything to go by, the radio stations in Leonida are going to be worth the wait. What artists are you hoping to see on the GTA 6 tracklist? Let us know in the comments below! View full article

Rockstar Games has rolled out a jam-packed update for Grand Theft Auto Online this week, combining festivities for both the Lunar New Year and Valentine's Day. From February 12th through the 18th, players can take advantage of massive payouts on bodyguard work, hunt for the lucrative Pink Diamond in Cayo Perico, and claim festive login rewards. Here is a full breakdown of the new content, bonuses, and discounts available this week. New Content & Login RewardsLunar New Year & Valentine's Gifts Celebrations kick off with exclusive gifts. Logging in this week grants players the Valentines Onesie and free Champagne at all Nightclubs. To mark the Lunar New Year, players who log in anytime through March 4th will receive the Red Year of the Horse Tee. Additionally, Yuanbao Collectibles have returned to the map for treasure hunters. A brand new stunt race, The Senora Derby, is also available now for those looking to test their driving skills in the spirit of the holiday. New Vehicle: Grotti Itali Classic The Grotti Itali Classic has hit the showroom floors. Players can purchase it from Legendary Motorsport for $2,025,000. GTA+ members can snag it at a 20% discount from The Vinewood Car Club. High-Value Heist Updates Heist enthusiasts have a major reason to return to Cayo Perico this week. The chance of spotting the Pink Diamond as the Primary Target has been significantly boosted. According to community reports, the probability has jumped to 50% (up from the usual 10-20% range), regardless of whether it has been more or less than 72 hours since your last playthrough. Bonuses & Payouts For players looking to grind cash, this week offers exceptional multipliers for Associates and Bodyguards: 4x GTA$ on CEO/VIP Work. 4x GTA$ on Associate and Bodyguard Salaries. 3x GTA$ & RP on "Deadline Duet" (Valentine's Mode). 2x GTA$ & RP on Community Series. 2x Payout on the FIB Priority File (The Project Breakaway File). Weekly Challenge: Earn GTA$100,000 as an Associate or Bodyguard to unlock the Valentines Blazer and a bonus GTA$100,000. Vehicle RotationsSalvage Yard Robberies The Cargo Robbery: Obey Omnis e-GT The Cargo Ship Robbery: Pfister Comet Safari The Gangbanger Robbery: Vapid Caracara 4x4 Showrooms & Test Tracks Premium Deluxe Motorsport (Simeon’s): Declasse Tulip, Dinka Thrust, LCC Innovation, Vapid Hustler, and Vulcar Fagaloa. Luxury Autos: Albany Roosevelt and Classique Broadway (both decking out in the Los Santos Lovers livery). Test Track: Coil Voltic, Dewbauchee Rapid GT Cabrio, and Ocelot Locust. Premium Test Ride (PS5/Xbox Series): Coil Cyclone II. Lucky Wheel & Prize Ride Podium Vehicle: Spin the wheel at the Diamond Casino for a chance to win the Bravado Buffalo EVX (valued at over $2.1M). Prize Ride Challenge: Place Top 2 in an LS Car Meet Series race to win the Lampadati Corsita. Discounts This week is heavy on discounts for romantic attire and executive business properties. Free Items: Gusenberg Sweeper (Gun Van) Horse Tattoos and Masks 50% Off: Valentine's Clothing Nagasaki Shotaro 40% Off: Executive Offices (including Upgrades) 30% Off Vehicles: Coil Raiden Declasse Tahoma Coupe Declasse Tulip M-100 Declasse Yosemite 1500 Dewbauchee Vagner Grotti Cheetah Classic Jobuilt Velum 5-Seater Karin Hotring Everon Pegassi Torero Pfister Neon Gun Van InventoryPlayers can find the Gun Van to purchase the Gusenberg Sweeper for free. Other discounted weaponry includes the Tactical SMG, Military Rifle, Sniper Rifle, and Assault SMG, all 10% off (with deeper discounts for GTA+ members). View full article

Rockstar Games has rolled out a new background update for GTA Online today, implementing several key fixes and changes without requiring a client-side download. Arriving just ahead of the anticipated Valentine’s Event Week, this server-side patch targets specific exploits and resolves lingering bugs affecting businesses and achievements. Vinewood Club App Disabled for Cayo Perico PrepOne of the most notable changes in this update affects GTA+ members. The Vinewood Club App has now been disabled specifically during the "Cayo Perico – Gather Intel" preparation mission. This change appears to be a direct move by Rockstar to balance the intel gathering phase of the popular heist, preventing players from utilizing the app's features during this specific sequence. Major Glitch PatchesThe update also takes aim at game-breaking exploits that have been circulating in the community. According to patch notes shared by community insider Tez2, Rockstar has successfully patched two significant glitches: DMO Car Dupe Glitch: A method used to duplicate vehicles has been patched. Nightclub Vehicle God Mode: The exploit allowing players to make Nightclub vehicles invincible has been resolved. Bug Fixes and Quality of Life Improvements Beyond exploit prevention, the background update addresses several frustration points for legitimate players: Mansion Production Boost: Players who own only a single business can now properly apply the Mansion Production Boost again. Previously, a bug prevented this mechanic from functioning for single-business owners. Odd Jobs & Map Blips: An issue where Map Blip settings would disrupt "Odd Jobs" (Firefighter, Forklift Operator, and Paper Route) has been fixed, ensuring these activities run smoothly regardless of UI preferences. Flying Ace Trophy: Completionists can breathe a sigh of relief as the bug preventing the "Flying Ace" trophy from unlocking—even after earning Gold Medals in all Flight School lessons—has finally been squashed. What is a Background Update?For those unfamiliar, a background update allows Rockstar to tweak the game's code on their servers without forcing players to download a new patch on their consoles or PC. The next time you log into GTA Online, these changes will automatically be in effect. With these fixes in place, the game should offer a more stable and fair experience as players gear up for the upcoming Valentine's festivities. View full article

In a significant move reshaping the Grand Theft Auto V modding landscape, Take-Two Interactive has issued a shutdown order to alt:V, a popular multiplayer platform for GTA Online. The platform, known as a major alternative to FiveM, will cease operations entirely by July 2026, forcing thousands of players and server owners to migrate or face permanent closure. The End of an Era for alt:VThe alt:V team announced that they have entered a "staged wind-down" agreement with the publisher. The decision stems from Take-Two and Rockstar Games enforcing their Platform License Agreement, which designates FiveM as the only authorized platform for GTA V multiplayer modding. The developers behind alt:V addressed their community with a somber message: Critical Dates for the ShutdownTo facilitate a transition to FiveM, the shutdown will occur in three distinct phases over the coming months: March 2, 2026: The creation of new Community Servers on alt:V will be disabled. May 4, 2026: The public server listing will go offline. Current server owners must log into the Server Manager before this date to retain access to the latest builds during the transition period. July 6, 2026: The platform will become fully inoperable. Any servers that have not migrated to FiveM by this date will be permanently lost. Allegations of Monopolization The shutdown has sparked immediate controversy, particularly following statements from Disquse, a former lead developer for FiveM. Speaking to members of the community, Disquse heavily criticized Rockstar Games and Take-Two, alleging that the move is driven purely by profit and a desire to dismantle competition. While Rockstar acquired Cfx.re (the team behind FiveM) in 2023, allegedly promising improved relations with the modding community, critics argue that the reality has been different. Since alt:V is an independent platform, Rockstar and Take-Two cannot monetize it. In contrast, their ownership of FiveM allows them to generate revenue from the modding ecosystem—a point underscored by FiveM's recent launch of a creator marketplace. Disquse went further, raising concerns about the security of the official platforms, claiming that FiveM and RedM (the Red Dead Redemption 2 equivalent) have become vulnerable to cyberattacks, with RedM allegedly being "left to die." The Future of GTA ModdingThis shutdown solidifies FiveM's monopoly on GTA V roleplay and multiplayer modding. While the alt:V team expressed gratitude to their community for years of support, the forced consolidation raises questions about the future of independent modding projects. For now, server owners on alt:V have a short window to migrate their communities before the platform goes dark for good this summer. View full article

Fans eager for news on the highly anticipated Max Payne 1 & 2 Remake were left wanting this Tuesday following Remedy Entertainment’s latest financial briefing. While the Finnish studio released its Financial Statements for 2025, detailing a profitable fourth quarter, concrete updates on the noir-shooter’s return were notably absent. According to Remedy’s leadership, this silence is by design—but not their own. Rockstar Holds the Keys to Communication During the investor webcast accompanying the financial report, Markus Mäki, stepping in for Remedy leadership, addressed the lack of information head-on. When pressed by an investor for details on the project's status, Mäki revealed that the marketing cadence is entirely out of Remedy's hands. “Unfortunately, the Max Payne communications are all driven by Rockstar, so we are working on it hard but that's all I can say,” Mäki stated during the call. This clarifies a long-standing question for the community: while Remedy is handling the development grunt work, Rockstar Games (the IP holder and publisher) retains strict control over when and how the game is shown to the public. Given Rockstar’s notoriously secretive marketing style, the radio silence is standard procedure, albeit frustrating for fans hoping for a glimpse of the modernized classic. Development Timeline and the GTA Factor Despite the quiet front, development appears to be moving steadily. The financial documents confirmed that the Max Payne 1 & 2 Remake continues to be a primary source of revenue for Remedy during its development phase. The title has reportedly been in "full production" for over 18 months as of February 2026. Based on Remedy’s typical development cycles—which often involve 1 to 2 years of full production followed by extensive beta testing—industry watchers speculate a potential release window around Spring 2027. However, the elephant in the room remains Grand Theft Auto VI. With reports suggesting Rockstar will kick off the marketing campaign for the next GTA installment in the summer of 2026, the publisher is likely strategizing to prevent their titles from cannibalizing each other. It is plausible that Max Payne news is being withheld to keep the lane clear for GTA, or conversely, to serve as a release in a quieter window. Changes at Remedy The financial call also brought news of leadership changes at Remedy. Jean-Charles Gaudechon, a former executive at Electronic Arts, has been appointed as the new CEO. While some fans expressed concern over the shift in leadership, the board emphasized that creative and development decisions remain a collaborative effort, suggesting the Max Payne project should remain unaffected by the corporate restructuring. For now, fans will have to wait for Rockstar to break the silence. The next scheduled business review from Remedy is set for May 5, 2026, though if history is any indication, any major reveals will likely happen on Rockstar’s terms, not a financial call. View full article

The Wild West has officially conquered the small screen. According to new data, the mobile port of Rockstar Games’ classic Red Dead Redemption has surpassed 10 million downloads since its release in December. However, the breakdown of these numbers reveals a stark divide in how mobile gamers are accessing the title. The Netflix EffectData provided by analytics firm Sensor Tower (via The Game Business) indicates that the overwhelming majority of these 10 million downloads come from the version included with a Netflix subscription. The standalone premium version, which carries a hefty price tag of $39.99, has seen significantly less traction. Reports suggest this version has generated approximately $500,000 in revenue, equating to fewer than 20,000 copies sold. This disparity highlights the immense power of value-added subscription services in the mobile market, where high upfront costs for "console-quality" ports often deter casual players. Netflix Co-CEO Gregory Peters addressed the game's performance during a recent earnings call, citing "really positive results" and comparing its trajectory to the previously successful GTA Trilogy titles on the platform. With the GTA Trilogy recently leaving the service, Red Dead Redemption now stands as the flagship Rockstar title for Netflix Games. Franchise MilestonesThe mobile success contributes to an even larger milestone for the series. Take-Two Interactive recently reported that the Red Dead franchise has now sold over 110 million copies worldwide. While Red Dead Redemption 2 continues to be a sales juggernaut—shifting another 3 million units in the last quarter alone—the re-release of the original game on mobile, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S appears to have had a more modest commercial impact outside of the Netflix ecosystem. Based on the 3 million unit growth of the sequel and the total franchise figures, analysts estimate the re-release of the first game has sold fewer than one million units across all platforms since December. A Polished PortDespite the lopsided sales figures, the mobile port itself has been well-received. Following its launch, where it topped Apple App Store charts in the US within 24 hours, the game has received several updates to iron out performance issues and polish the experience for touch controls. As the lines between console and mobile gaming continue to blur, Red Dead Redemption serves as a case study for the industry: players are eager for AAA experiences on their phones, provided the barrier to entry is low. For more on the history behind the game, check out Professor Tore C. Olsson’s book, "Red Dead's History," which explores the real-world events that inspired the franchise. View full article

Despite its absence from the recent Nintendo Direct, fresh insider reports claim that a port of Red Dead Redemption 2 for the Nintendo Switch 2 is still on track for release later this year. According to a report from RockstarINTEL, renowned industry insider NateTheHate has reaffirmed that the critically acclaimed western title is slated for the new hybrid console in 2026. The Rumor Mill Churns After Nintendo DirectThe speculation resurfaced following Nintendo’s latest Direct presentation on Thursday, February 5, 2026. While the event showcased major third-party titles like Indiana Jones and The Great Circle, Rockstar Games was notably absent. This led some fans to question the status of the long-rumored port. However, historical trends suggest this absence isn't cause for alarm. Rockstar Games rarely utilizes partner showcases like Nintendo Directs to unveil major announcements, typically preferring their own channels or occasionally partnering with PlayStation for "State of Play" events. Reliable Sources Weigh InFollowing the Direct, NateTheHate took to X (formerly Twitter) to address fan concerns. Responding to inquiries about the project's status, he stated that to the best of his knowledge, the Red Dead Redemption 2 port is still scheduled for a 2026 release. NateTheHate has built a reputation for accuracy in the industry. Previously, when Rockstar announced a re-release of the original Red Dead Redemption late last year, he clarified that the move did not negate the development of the sequel's port for Nintendo's next-generation hardware. The "GTA VI" FactorWhile the insider consensus leans toward a release, not everyone is entirely convinced about the timing. Reece "KIWITALKZ" Reilly, who claims to have spoken with eight developers at Rockstar regarding the new version, expressed skepticism about the release window. Reilly points out a potential marketing conflict: with the massive promotional campaign for Grand Theft Auto VI expected to ramp up in the summer ahead of its November launch, a Red Dead Redemption 2 port risks being drowned out by the hype. Looking AheadDespite the potential for a crowded release calendar, the prevailing belief among insiders is that the port remains "on the cards" for 2026. The strategic logic suggests Rockstar would aim to release the title on the Switch 2 before the GTA VI juggernaut consumes the industry's attention in late November. As with all rumors, fans will have to wait for official confirmation from Rockstar Games or Nintendo. But for now, hope remains high that Arthur Morgan’s journey will soon be playable on the go on Nintendo's powerful new system. View full article