GTA 6 fans divided over Niko Bellic's fate

Grand Theft Auto fans are divided over the fate of Niko Bellic in the upcoming GTA VI.

Niko Bellic, the main protagonist (or antagonist, depending on your perspective) of GTA IV, is one of the most popular characters in Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto series.

Hailing from “Mother Russia”, Niko Bellic is an ex-military soldier turned crime syndicate member.

Having had enough of his homeland, Niko moves to the fictional United States haven of Liberty City, inspired by New York City, to pursue his perception of the “American Dream”.

However, it’s not long until Niko discovers that the American Dream is not what he thought it was and finds himself involved in criminal shenanigans once more.

If criminal life wasn't hard enough already in a foreign country, Niko had to put up with his infuriatingly needy cousin, Roman (if you know, you know).

The last time we saw Niko Bellic was in the GTA IV DLC released in 2009, The Ballad of Gay Tony. Since that time, fans have longed for his return, and many will be keeping their fingers crossed for the upcoming GTA VI.

“I wonder if Niko's absence in GTA V is because he goes on a vacation with Roman in Vice City. Could this mean Niko and Roman will appear in GTA VI?” asked Redditor Parking-Law-3940, sharing a screenshot of a mobile conversation in GTA IV.

Firstly, before we proceed, I am about to reveal a spoiler for the conclusion of GTA IV. So if you plan on finishing a game released in 2008, consider this to be your final spoiler warning.

Towards the end of GTA IV’s story, the player is presented with two choices. One will result in Roman being killed just after marrying the love of his life, and the other will see him live. As far as I’m aware, both are considered canon.

I wasn't aware of what impact my choice would have at that time, but my choice led to the death of Roman, and it brought a tear of joy to my eye.

Regardless of the choice made in GTA IV, there is a slight chance that Niko and/or Roman could appear in GTA VI, even if it's a mere cameo. With that in mind, fans discuss the speculative fate of Niko.

“This could be a possibility,” suggested ArtyM8.

“I would attribute his absence in GTA V to be the fact that the game takes place in a completely different city, but that's just me,” said Maple905.

“Lester was hinting to Michael about Niko when planning the jewellery heist, but also says, “nah, he went quiet.' It means Niko is currently leading a normal life by leaving his criminal activity behind,” replied Parking-Law-3940.

“An 18-year vacation? Sounds surreal to me,” exclaimed Atreyx.

“Roman died in millions of people's games, so how would that work exactly?” asked a Reddit user.

I guess we'll just have to wait and see to find out if Niko and Roman Bellic return in GTA VI.

Grand Theft Auto VI is currently scheduled to be released on 26 May 2026 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.