Here’s a comparison between gameplay from Rockstar Games’ upcoming open-world action-adventure game, GTA VI, and like-for-like real life footage from Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, Florida.
The GTA VI comparison highlights the attention to detail with which Rockstar Games has recreated Miami’s iconic beachfront strip, with the gameplay footage looking remarkably similar to its real-life counterpart. The video clip initially deceived many people after it was shared by Instagram user onlyindade. The account exclusively shares real-life footage submitted by Miami residents, making it an unlikely place for viewers to expect video game footage.
GTA VI Gameplay vs Real Life Footage Comparison
A side-by-side comparison between the aforementioned GTA VI gameplay and like-for-like real life footage from Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, Florida can be seen below.
The Instagram user had to clarify through direct messages that the video clip is in fact from GTA VI, as ,any viewers couldn’t distinguish it from real-world footage. Rockstar Games subsequently acknowledged the post by liking it and resharing the video to its Instagram Story, without issuing an announcement or labeling the footage as gameplay.
Part of what makes the comparison so convincing is the camera work. Shot from a moving vehicle, the footage depicts the sort of casual framing and visual imperfections associated with everyday smartphone recordings. Instagram’s video compression further blurs things out.
The real life footage is from Rockstar Games’ October,2026, promotional campaign, when the studio partnered with West Coast Customs to build 6 actual vehicles inspired by GTA VI. Featuring Leonida license plates, the cars were driven around Miami, generating viral footage that locals described as GTA VI coming to life.
Recently, Rockstar Games also put unannounced gameplay from GTA VI into an episode of South Park, initially leaving viewers wondering whether it was AI-generated.
GTA VI is set for release on November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
