Authorities warn that the video game promotes violence and criminal behavior
Grand Theft Auto (GTA) franchise game developer Take Two Interactive has faced a major setback ahead of the highly anticipated GTA 6 launch. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global gaming community, Tajikistan has officially banned the entire GTA franchise months ahead of its November 19, 2026 release.
Authorities from the Central Asian nation claim the game promotes violence, theft, murder and criminal behavior. As the game is popular among young people, the authorities fear that it could negatively affect young people.
Tajikistan imposed a ban on several video games in 2024, including Counter-Strike and GTA. Home Office officials warned that content in such games goes against national values and may encourage crime.
There are no signs that the government could consider lifting the ban on GTA 6 as it nears release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox X/S.
Tajikistan is not the only country where the game franchise faces restrictions, Thailand has maintained a complete ban on all versions of the video game since 2008 after a high-profile criminal case was linked to the game.
Malaysia has also imposed restrictions on violent titles such as GTA. In other countries, the approach is more nuanced, as Germany and Australia have historically required censored or heavily edited versions, while several Middle Eastern nations (including parts of the Gulf region) often block or heavily regulate games with mature content involving crime, drugs or explicit themes.
