Do not': Rockstar outlines modding rules before GTA VI touches down

Chris Kerr,Senior Editor, News,GameDeveloper.com

September 22, 2026

schedule2 Min ReadImage via Rockstar Games

Rockstar has restated its modding guidelines with the launch of Grand Theft Auto VI looming large, and the words "do not" appear in abundance.

Although the studio has yet to confirm a launch date for GTA VI on PC, it is being proactive about laying down the law for those who might want to tinker with the title when the time comes. The guidelines will also apply to existing releases such as GTA V and Red Dead Redemption II, both of which have well-established modding and roleplaying communities.

The rulebook was shared by Rockstar on September 10, 2026, and prohibits modders from creating content that combines maps, locations, characters, storylines, in-game assets, or other IP from one Rockstar title into another.

Notably, they also seek to prevent people from expanding or modifying official Rockstar storylines, plots, missions, characters, or other elements from the studio's "established continuity."

Multiplayer modding has been restricted to Rockstar's official licensed Creator Platform—unless the studio has stated otherwise. Any creations that infringe on Rockstar Games' own or third-party IP and services are off-limits, too.

"Do not use protected elements of anyone else's intellectual property in your mod, including art, characters, music, photos, games, advertisements, brands or logos, real-world locations, etc," read the guidelines. "Do not modify or reuse voiceover performances from any game released by Rockstar Games. Do not use any real-world person's voice, image, or likeness without written permission."

In addition, would-be modders have been warned to avoid implementing "unauthorized or abusive monetization" systems. Rockstar has stressed that people must only monetize their mods via its own official Creator Platform.

"You may only monetize your mods via digital storefront providers approved by Rockstar Games and in compliance with all applicable laws, rules, and policies," states the company.

"We do not permit mods to enable real money gambling, 'loot boxes,' 'gacha,' or similar chance mechanics for real money. We do not permit the offering or selling of in-game virtual currency for real money. We do not permit the use or promotion of cryptocurrency or crypto assets (e.g., 'NFTs,' tokens, memecoin, or stablecoin)."

The full modding guidelines are available on the Rockstar Games website.

Rockstar Games

About the Author

Chris Kerr

Senior Editor, News, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton.

See more from Chris Kerrchevron_right