The eagerly awaited trailer for Grand Theft Auto VI has sparked discussions across the gaming community. While fans are captivated by its advanced graphics and the seemingly likable main characters, professional opinions suggest that the trailer falls short of its potential. Despite its impressive view count, many critics argue that it lacks narrative depth and emotional resonance. Derek Lieu, a seasoned game trailer editor, highlights these shortcomings and emphasizes the importance of effective storytelling in trailers.

According to Lieu, the GTA VI trailer primarily suffers from a lack of narrative coherence. Although filled with cutscenes, the trailer fails to convey significant stakes or motivations for its characters. Instead of engaging viewers emotionally, it presents a series of disconnected moments. This contrasts sharply with Rockstar's previous efforts, such as the third trailer for GTA IV, which effectively encapsulated the protagonist's journey and aspirations within a single scene. Such an approach could have enriched the audience's connection to GTA VI's storyline.

Lieu attributes some of these issues to the common practice of in-house trailer production. While certain companies excel at this, others fall short due to reliance on pre-existing fan excitement rather than crafting compelling content. He suggests that trailers should not merely capitalize on established franchises but strive to elevate them through meticulous editing and music selection.

In addition to narrative gaps, the choice of music in the GTA VI trailer also draws criticism. The Pointer Sisters' "Hot Together" fits thematically but is used ineffectively. Lieu points out that other major releases successfully adapt licensed tracks to enhance their trailers' dramatic impact. For instance, movies like Knives Out demonstrate how tailored soundtracks can significantly boost emotional engagement throughout a sequence.

Another point raised by Lieu concerns the disjointed nature of scenes presented in the trailer. Early sequences involving Jason Duval, one half of the game’s central duo, appear unrelated until closer inspection reveals subtle connections. Improved signposting could bridge these gaps, creating smoother transitions between character interactions and action-packed moments.

Beyond specific critiques, Lieu acknowledges that trailers don't need to reveal everything upfront. However, they must balance intrigue with clarity. Effective trailers pose unanswered questions while providing enough context to pique interest. Comparisons to A24 film trailers illustrate how strategic sequencing can maintain mystery without sacrificing engagement.

With Rockstar delaying GTA VI's release until May 2026, the studio faces pressure to sustain public enthusiasm. Though guaranteed sales might seem inevitable given the franchise's popularity, well-crafted trailers remain crucial for maintaining momentum. As Lieu notes, regardless of size or scope, every game benefits from thoughtful promotional materials that resonate with audiences on multiple levels.