As it currently stands, it's a bit unclear how Rockstar are planning to approach multiplayer with GTA 6. It seems that GTA Online will continue to run even after the impending sequel launches, but beyond that who really knows. What is clear is that Rockstar and their publisher Take-Two are still pretty committed to GTA Online and its ecosystem, given that they've now apparently sent a cease and desist to the popular modding and roleplay platform Rage:MP.
"We must share an important update about the future of RAGE:MP. Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive have made it clear that FiveM is the only authorized platform for GTA V multiplayer modding, as defined in their Platform License Agreement (PLA)," explains one of the admins in a statement (ta, Dexerto). "In accordance with that policy, and at Take-Two's request, Rage:MP will begin a structured shutdown process. We are asking all server owners to wind down their operations and migrate to FiveM."
As of the announcement, it is no longer possible to make new community servers, with public access to the Rage:MP server toolkit having been discontinued too. They're also advising server managers to migrate as quickly as possible, as on June 1st the server listing will be shut down, and all community servers will be completely shut down by August 31st.
"We know this is tough news for everyone - both developers and players," the statement continues. "As FiveM is now Rockstar Games' official platform for modding-based experiences, we've done our best to give you extra time to move your servers to their new home, and we will continue to do everything we can to make the switch over as smooth as possible."
As a reminder, a few years ago Rockstar actually bought the team behind FiveM, and opened up an online marketplace earlier this year where you can buy various GTA roleplaying mods, including one that essentially turns it into Euro Truck Simulator 2. Keep in mind, some of these mods have a hefty price tag, so it seems like a foregone conclusion that Take-Two's action against Rage:MP will be down to them wanting to keep mods like these within their own ecosystem. Still, a shame!