A new mod for Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) that allowed players to explore a fan-made version of the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) has been removed after a copyright notice was issued by Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games. The mod, developed by the content creator known as Dark Space, was based on leaked details and speculation around the upcoming game, which is confirmed to take place in Vice City, Rockstar's fictional interpretation of Miami.
Dark Space's mod, known as Project Vice, transformed the expansive world of GTA V into what could potentially be a preview of the forthcoming title. The mod was initially released on March 20, 2025, and quickly gained traction in the gaming community, with Dark Space sharing gameplay footage that became viral on his YouTube channel. His video showcased what players might expect from GTA VI, but the rapid growth of interest in the mod raised red flags for Take-Two Interactive.
Shortly after the mod's release, Take-Two activated its legal machinery, issuing a copyright removal request that led to the deletion of Dark Space's YouTube video and a copyright strike on his channel. Take-Two has a long history of engaging with the modding community, often removing projects that it perceives as a threat to its own intellectual property. This trend continued with Dark Space's Project Vice, which some speculate could have been too accurate in its depiction of the upcoming game.
In a recent update, Dark Space reflected on the situation, stating, “I spent months building a fan-made GTA VI-inspired map inside GTA V – something purely made out of passion, not profit. But shortly after uploading a video showcasing the project, Take-Two Interactive took it down. No warning. No conversation. Just gone.” He indicated that he had anticipated such a response from the company, which has a history of cracking down on mods. “I went into this project knowing it was a possibility, and the fact that it happened does not surprise me,” he added.
Dark Space was not alone in feeling the repercussions of Take-Two's aggressive legal tactics. Over the years, the company has consistently pursued the shutdown of fan projects, including the recent closure of the Liberty City Preservation Project and the YouTube channel of the developers behind the GTA Vice City Nextgen Edition. This pattern represents a delicate balance for modders who wish to create and share fan content while fearing potentially severe legal ramifications from the parent company.
Despite the setback, Dark Space remains philosophical about the future of his creative endeavors. He noted, “I think my map could have ruined the surprise of their map, which I get. If you spent years building out this amazing game world just to have some YouTuber spoil the experience of the map's shape, size, and vibe... I'd want it removed too.” While disappointed, he acknowledges the motivations behind Take-Two's actions.
The excitement surrounding GTA VI continues to build as its anticipated release draws near, targeting a fall 2025 launch. To date, Rockstar has not officially confirmed numerous details regarding the game, leading fans to turn to leaks and hopeful speculation online. The modding community is left in a precarious position, where budding projects can either thrive or be crushed in an instant based on decisions made by corporate lawyers.
In recent months, fans have gathered to compile what they know about the upcoming game, and Dark Space's Project Vice was a notable contribution to this collaborative effort. It was developed from an amalgamation of data collected from previous leaks, speculation, and officially released promotional material from Rockstar. This collaborative initiative has sparked interest not just in GTA VI, but also in the broader landscape of video game modding and its relationship with large developers.
With GTA VI's launch date on the horizon, the uncertainty surrounding mod developments may lead to more caution among creators in the community. It remains to be seen whether Take-Two will relent and allow any fan projects to coexist with its commercial interests, or if they will continue to pursue a zero-tolerance approach regarding any perceived infringement.
As the gaming world eagerly awaits new updates from Rockstar, many hope that their patience will pay off, either through an exhilarating release or a shift in how the modding community is treated. Until then, Dark Space plans to steer clear of future mods directly related to GTA VI, focusing instead on creating content that inspires and engages his audience without attracting unwanted legal attention.
The tension between developers and modders persists, raising questions about creative expression and corporate control in the video game industry. Players and creators alike are left to ponder what the future holds as they navigate their passions amid legal boundaries.
