Grand Theft Auto Writer Explains Why GTA: London Will Never Happen

Grand Theft Auto has always reflected the chaos, excess, and humor of American life. And according to its co-creator Dan Houser, that’s exactly why a GTA: London will never become a full game. Despite fan-made concepts and viral trailers, Houser says the series is “too American” at its core to thrive anywhere else.

“It Just Wouldn’t Work” Outside America

In a recent interview, the former Rockstar Games writer explained that while the original top-down GTA released a small London expansion in the late 1990s, it was never meant to define the franchise. “We made a little thing in London 26 years ago. It was cute and fun,” he said. “But for a full GTA game, we always decided there was so much Americana inherent in the IP, it would be really hard to make it work elsewhere.”

That “Americana,” as Houser described it, defines everything from the game’s satire to its larger-than-life characters and obsession with fame, crime, and capitalism. It’s the exaggerated portrait of the American dream — and the downfall that comes with chasing it  that gives GTA its cultural punch.

The American Spirit Behind GTA’s World

Every city in GTA mirrors this dynamic. From Liberty City’s urban grit to Los Santos’ neon spectacle, the worlds are built around American archetypes. Houser emphasized that this perspective often seen “from the outside looking in” is what makes GTA resonate globally. Players aren’t just exploring a map; they’re exploring a version of America where everything feels heightened yet familiar.

As he put it, “You needed guns, you needed these larger-than-life characters. That was so much about what the thing was.” Without that foundation, he believes the franchise would lose its identity. A London-based version might have style and satire, but not the same cultural DNA that defines the series.

Vice City Returns  and America Endures

While fans continue to imagine GTA in London, Rockstar is returning to America’s sun-soaked dreamland with GTA 6. Set in a modernized Vice City, the game will revisit the glamour, excess, and contradictions of Miami. “There’s glitz, glamour, underbelly, immigrants, enormous wealth those are what’s really fun,” Houser said, pointing out that such melting pots are what give GTA its richness.

Ironically, even those hoping for GTA: London seem to agree with him. 3D artist Carlos Rico, who created a viral fan trailer, admitted that the British capital might not lend itself well to Rockstar’s brand of chaos. “The pothole-riddled roads aren’t exactly fun to speed down,” he joked. “I’d probably blow all my in-game cash on congestion charges.”

Houser’s New Chapter

Since leaving Rockstar in 2020, Houser has launched Absurd Ventures, a new creative studio focused on storytelling across multiple mediums. Yet his influence on GTA remains unmistakable. His commitment to world-building, satire, and social commentary continues to shape the franchise  even in his absence.

Fans may dream of new settings, but Houser’s words make one thing clear: Grand Theft Auto will always belong to America. It’s a reflection, a parody, and a myth  all rolled into one chaotic masterpiece. The skyline might change, but the spirit never will.