Community Reports
Community reports suggest that Rockstar Games may have settled on its next project after the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI. According to GAMINGbible, this project might not be the long-rumored Red Dead Redemption 3, but rather a sequel to 2011's L.A. Noire.
The speculation arises from a member of the GTA Forums known as Shahanshah, who claims that Rockstar's next title could be an L.A. Noire sequel. This new installment is rumored to be set in San Francisco, a location associated with the infamous Zodiac Killer, which would mark a significant thematic shift from the original game.
The initial rumors about a sequel began circulating in 2023, with some reports suggesting that the criminal profile on which the game would be based has only recently been revealed. If the game indeed centers around the Zodiac Killer, it would likely take place in the 1960s, diverging from the 1940s setting of the original L.A. Noire.
Shahanshah also noted that Rockstar aims to enhance facial scanning and animation technology in this rumored sequel, potentially elevating the game's realism.
However, until Rockstar provides official confirmation, these claims should be approached with caution.
Background
L.A. Noire, developed by Team Bondi, was released in 2011 and is known for its unique investigative gameplay and detailed facial animations. The game was set in post-war Los Angeles and involved solving crimes inspired by real-life cases.
The closest attempt at a sequel was the controversially named Whore of the Orient, which was being developed by Team Bondi and set in 1930s Shanghai. However, this project was ultimately canceled, leaving fans of L.A. Noire without a direct follow-up.
What This Means
If the rumors about an L.A. Noire sequel are accurate, it could signify Rockstar's intent to explore new narratives and settings beyond the Grand Theft Auto series. The focus on a historical figure like the Zodiac Killer could also attract a different audience, blending crime drama with investigative gameplay.
