In recent days, excitement has surged across the Grand Theft Auto community after reports surfaced that Rockstar Games had begun putting up real-world advertisements for Grand Theft Auto VI. The speculation followed Rockstar’s recent website update, which showcased a refreshed design with GTA 6 prominently featured on the homepage. Many fans began wondering whether this update hinted at an imminent announcement, new trailer, pre-orders, or possibly even a delay.

Adding fuel to the speculation, Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, is scheduled to hold its next earnings call on Thursday, November 6, at 4:30 PM (EST)—a timing that has historically coincided with major Rockstar announcements.

The Times Square Billboard Confusion
Video clips circulating online showed what appeared to be a massive GTA 6 advertisement in Times Square, New York City, displayed on the Marriott Marquis Hotel. The billboard featured the text “Watch Trailer 2 Now” along with the official artwork of protagonists Jason and Lucia, prompting many to believe Rockstar had officially launched its real-world marketing campaign.

However, further investigation revealed that this footage was not new. The videos originated from May 2024, around the same time Rockstar released the second GTA 6 trailer and revamped its website. The billboard in question was actually part of a YouTube Gaming promotion, not an official Rockstar marketing effort. The YouTube logo appearing at the top of the screen confirmed the platform’s involvement. To stay safe, it’s important to choose safe GTA Online accounts from trusted sellers with good reviews and verified protection.

YouTube likely sponsored the ad to capitalize on the massive attention surrounding the trailer’s release—especially since Rockstar premiered both trailers exclusively on its official YouTube channel.

When Will Rockstar Begin Real-World Marketing?
Although these particular Times Square ads are not new, they do provide a glimpse of what fans can expect once Rockstar’s full marketing campaign begins. Historically, Rockstar has executed impressive large-scale promotions, such as the Red Dead Redemption 2 murals on the Figueroa Hotel in Los Angeles and bus advertisements worldwide. When official GTA 6 billboards, murals, and TV commercials eventually appear, it will mark the beginning of a major global marketing phase for the long-awaited game.

A Real-Life Liberty City Police Car Appears in New York
Meanwhile, another Rockstar-related phenomenon has caught fans’ attention in New York City—a real-life Liberty City Police Department (LCPD) car modeled after vehicles from Grand Theft Auto IV. The fan-made cruiser, complete with accurate Liberty City branding and an “LCPD” license plate, has been spotted driving through the city and attracting plenty of attention from pedestrians taking photos.

Although some speculated this might be a Rockstar promotional stunt or a teaser for a possible GTA IV remaster, it has been confirmed that the car was built entirely by a fan, showcasing the creativity and dedication of the Grand Theft Auto community.

What Happens Next?
For now, there are no new official billboards or advertisements for Grand Theft Auto VI in public spaces. The Times Square footage circulating online dates back to May and was not created by Rockstar Games. However, with Take-Two Interactive’s upcoming financial report and Rockstar’s history of coordinating major announcements around such events, fans may not have to wait much longer for the next big update.

When Rockstar officially begins its real-world marketing campaign, expect to see GTA 6 visuals lighting up cities around the world—on buildings, buses, and television screens. Until then, the community will be watching closely for any signs of what’s next in the lead-up to the most anticipated game of the decade.

No, Rockstar Games has not yet begun new real-world advertising for Grand Theft Auto VI. The viral Times Square billboard footage is from May 2024 and was part of a YouTube Gaming campaign. Fans should keep an eye on upcoming official announcements, particularly around Take-Two’s November earnings call, which could signal the next major GTA 6 reveal.