Summary

  • PC players of GTA Online finally get a new anti-cheat system with BattleEye.
  • GTA 5's multiplayer, GTA Online, remains widely popular despite issues caused by hackers.
  • Rockstar's introduction of an anti-cheat system likely sets the stage for GTA 6's release and multiplayer experience.

A slew of Rockstar-related news recently broke, confirming the long-awaited addition of anti-cheat to Grand Theft Auto Online for PC. The highly popular multiplayer component to 2013's Grand Theft Auto 5 hit PC storefronts in 2015 but has been notoriously tricky to play due to cheaters, modders, and hackers. PC players have essentially had to join GTA Online servers at their own risk, though Rockstar seeks to finally address these issues head-on by bringing a new anti-cheat system to the game.

Over a decade later, GTA 5 still dominates the charts, with its multiplayer mode, GTA Online, proving to be one of the most popular and defining experiences within the video game industry. GTA Online puts the world of Los Santos into the hands of players, allowing them to launch their own criminal enterprises. Players have the option of opening up their own businesses, which can range from cocaine factories to nightclubs. Money is the name of the game in GTA Online, but PC players have notoriously struggled when it came to being able to experience the mode in a fair setting, with modders and hackers essentially being able to do as they please in public lobbies. However, Rockstar has finally addressed these issues, announcing a new anti-cheat system for GTA Online.

grand theft auto online removes hasta la vista
GTA Online Update Removes Popular Game Mode

Rockstar Games removes a popular game mode from Grand Theft Auto Online, despite only being in the game's rotation for one week.

The new update, which is out now for PC GTA 5 players, adds the BattleEye anti-cheat, specifically targeting issues within GTA Online. The update comes as GTA Online celebrates its 11th anniversary. As to why Rockstar decided to add anti-cheat now, it's speculated the studio plans on bringing GTA 5's next-gen update, which rolled out for consoles back in 2022, to PC soon.

Rockstar Adds Anti-Cheat to GTA Online

Anti-cheat has long been requested for GTA Online, with PC players having to risk playing with hackers or by themselves in a private lobby. While GTA Online can be enjoyed solo, the game really comes alive in a full lobby, with players given bonus cash and RP for completing certain tasks if other players are present.

As for what's next, Rockstar is currently developing Grand Theft Auto 6, an ambitious new entry in the action-packed franchise that takes players to a fictional version of Miami called Vice City. Longtime fans will recognize this location from previous entries, though given the level of detail shown off in the GTA 6 reveal trailer, this version of Vice City is expected to be one of the most fully realized open worlds seen in gaming. The game will likely continue where GTA Online eventually leaves off, though no information regarding GTA 6's multiplayer has been revealed just yet.

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Grand Theft Auto Online Tag Page Cover Art
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Released
October 1, 2013
ESRB
M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Mature Humor, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content, Use of Drugs and Alcohol
Developer(s)
Rockstar North
Publisher(s)
Rockstar Games
Engine
Rockstar Advanced Game Engine
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WHERE TO PLAY

SUBSCRIPTION
DIGITAL
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Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer
Cross-Platform Play
n/a
Cross Save
n/a
Franchise
Grand Theft Auto
Number of Players
1-8 (Online Co-Op); 1-30 (Multiplayer)
Steam Deck Compatibility
yes
Genre(s)
Open-World, Action
How Long To Beat
120+ Hours
X|S Optimized
Yes
PS Plus Availability
Extra & Premium
File Size Xbox Series
101 GB (July 2023)