Cayo Perico was added to GTA Online in December 2020. It was the first full standalone-island expansion in any GTA. We work through what it taught us.

What it was

A separate island, accessed by helicopter or boat from Los Santos, with its own heist and side content. Substantially expanded the playable space without rebuilding the base map.

Significant in how it was content-engineered - paid expansion-style content delivered via the live service.

What it suggests for GTA 6

Standalone-island expansions are part of Rockstar's playbook now. GTA 6 will probably ship a base map and add expansions later - new islands, new districts, new regions.

When and how often is unconfirmed. Cayo Perico's pattern is one option.