Here’s how I’m preparing for GTA 6 in the next 365 days before its release date

Barring another delay, we should be just a year from GTA 6 right now. In fact, in 365 days, we’ll all be bunking off school and work like I did when Halo 3 launched in 2007, frantically downloading a day one patch, and dodging story spoilers like they’re the bubonic plague.

So much has happened in the 12 years since GTA 5 first launched, and with a year to go, I thought I’d put together some ideas about how to spend the next year in the run-up to GTA 6’s release.

NOTE: Most of these are not genuine suggestions, so don’t tell your lawyer that I made you do this.

1 – Play the existing games

I’m not sure if you’ve gone back to older GTA games, but while they may not hold up as well in a visual sense, they’re still pretty great.

Vice City is the obvious candidate here since we’re heading back there with GTA 6, but there’s an awful lot to get through when factoring in Liberty City Stories and the like.

2 – Get the Batmobile in GTA Online

I don’t play GTA Online because as soon as someone spots me, they make it their life’s work to ruin my day, usually driving the Batmobile or some s***.

So, in the months you’ve got to wait until GTA 6 (and probably for even a trailer for the game), go find and unlock the wildest car you can. I believe in you.

3 – Go visit a strip bar

Look, rumors suggest we’ll have male and female strippers this time around, so go learn about human anatomy from the pros and support local businesses.

4 – Plan a bank heist

GTA 4’s bank heist was legendary, but they only got better in GTA 5. Why not get a headstart and sit outside your local bank and scribble notes on guard patterns, security measures, and anything else you think might be useful when you jump into a virtual life of crime next year.

5 – Learn to drive

Looking for a speedy getaway? Get your driver’s licence. Already got one? Get a fast car!

Buy it, steal it, whatever you fancy – just try and learn the rules of the road well in advance of your upcoming Vice City trip.

6 – Hit the gym

Jason and Lucia look to be in impeccable shape, almost as if they don’t write about video games for a living. Go hit the bench press so you’ll fit right in with your virtual crew (or go to the gym in San Andreas).

7 – Visit the Police Station and the Hospital

You’re going to be seeing both soon enough anyway, so why not get acquainted with each?

8 – Go swimming with sharks

No snorkel, just go to the edge of your map’s limits. If you’re landlocked, ask a local aquarium if you can book a spot.

9 – Fly a plane

Aerial vehicles have come a long way since the Dodo in GTA 3. Ask a pilot nicely if you can learn to fly a luxury jet.

10 – Preorder the game

Well duh, what did you think was going to be number 10? Get in a Bonnie and Clyde-style relationship?