GTA 6 makes car theft more realistic with slim jims, hotwiring, and key cloners

Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto 6 is continuing the studio's recent trend of prioritising realism, and one of the most significant changes from previous entries in the series is how players will go about stealing cars. Rather than the simple smash-and-grab of earlier games, the method required to commandeer a vehicle will depend entirely on the car's make, model, and age.

For older cars, the traditional approach of smashing a window and driving off remains an option. However, players who prefer a quieter tactic will be able to use a slim jim — a tool commonly employed by roadside assistance services to unlock car doors. Using this device triggers a short minigame that involves manipulating the control stick on a PlayStation 5 or Xbox controller. Once inside, the player can hotwire the vehicle and drive away.

Newer vehicles present a different challenge entirely. These cars, including what will likely be a parody of a Tesla electric vehicle, cannot be broken into with a slim jim or by smashing a window. Instead, players will need a key cloner, which enables a technique known as a "relay attack." This device mimics the electronic signal from a modern key fob, allowing the player to remotely unlock and start the car without setting off the alarm. In both the real world and Rockstar's satirical version of Florida, this method is a realistic depiction of how criminals can break into modern vehicles.

The addition of these theft methods is part of a broader push toward realism in GTA 6. Other previously reported features include the need to fill your car with gas, working out to maintain or improve your character's fitness, and eating to stay energised. These systems mirror the approach Rockstar took with Red Dead Redemption 2, which similarly emphasised a more grounded, immersive experience.

Presumably, the slim jim and key cloner will be items that the game's protagonists, Jason and Lucia, can carry with them as they explore Vice City. Players will need to decide which tool to use based on the target vehicle, adding a layer of strategy to what was once a straightforward act. The game's focus on realistic car theft also ties into the broader goal of making money in GTA 6, as players will likely seek out valuable vehicles to sell or use for missions.

The shift to a more nuanced system for stealing cars represents a significant departure from the series' roots. In previous Grand Theft Auto games, any car could be entered by simply smashing the window, regardless of its age or type. Now, players will have to assess each vehicle before attempting a theft, choosing the appropriate tool and technique for the job. This change not only adds depth to the gameplay but also reinforces the game's satirical take on modern crime and technology.

Rockstar's attention to detail extends to the tools themselves. The slim jim, for instance, is a device that many people have seen used by roadside assistance services, while the key cloner is a more sophisticated piece of equipment that reflects the growing complexity of car security systems. By incorporating these elements, the game aims to create a more believable and engaging world where players must adapt to the circumstances of each crime.

As more details about GTA 6 emerge, it is clear that the game is building on the foundation laid by Red Dead Redemption 2, with a focus on realism and immersion. The car theft system is just one example of how the studio is rethinking core mechanics to create a more detailed and interactive experience. Players can expect to learn more about other features, including how to make money in Vice City, as the game's release approaches.