A game developer from Ubisoft has made a heartfelt request to Rockstar Games, asking for the chance to allow a terminally ill family member to playtest the highly anticipated GTA VI. Anthony Armstrong, who works at Ubisoft Toronto, shared his plea on LinkedIn in December, expressing concern that his family member may not survive long enough to experience the game’s official launch.
Armstrong’s emotional post highlighted the urgency of his request, as he noted that the family member was given a life expectancy of no more than a year. In a now-deleted update, he mentioned his willingness to sign a non-disclosure agreement to facilitate the playtesting opportunity.
Shortly after his initial appeal, Armstrong provided updates indicating progress, revealing that the CEO of Take-Two Interactive Software, Rockstar’s parent company, had reached out. In his updates, he expressed gratitude for the support he received from the gaming community, thanking those who shared his post in efforts to reach Rockstar.
The excitement surrounding Armstrong’s request resonated with fans, generating significant attention on social media, where many expressed their support through likes and encouraging comments filled with wholesome memes. However, it remains unclear whether his family member ultimately had the chance to playtest the game, as Rockstar has not released any public comments regarding the matter.
The sixth installment of the Grand Theft Auto series, originally slated for a fall 2025 release, has now been delayed until November 19, 2026. This delay means that the game will launch nearly three years after the first trailer was released in December 2023. Rockstar has assured fans that the extended wait will be worth it, promising an expansive experience set in the fictional state of Leonida, a return to the iconic Vice City.
The enduring popularity of the Grand Theft Auto franchise is evident, as the previous entry, GTA V, continues to attract active players, with peak user counts reaching over 84,000. As anticipation builds for GTA VI, players can look forward to new characters, including Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos, and a vibrant Miami-inspired environment.
In a world where gaming often provides an escape, Armstrong’s request highlights the deep connections and emotional bonds that video games can forge, reminding us of the powerful role they play in our lives.