Exploring the Keys: How Big is the Archipelago South of Vice City? Discover the massive scale of the Leonida Keys in GTA VI. We analyze map leaks, the “Gator Keys” archipelago, and how it compares to GTA V’s Los Santos.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Beyond the City Limits
When Rockstar Games unveiled the first look at Grand Theft Auto VI, all eyes were on the neon-soaked streets of Vice City. But for map enthusiasts and explorers, the real intrigue lies further south. The Archipelago South of Vice City—officially dubbed the Leonida Keys (and affectionately known by fans as the “Gator Keys”)—promises to be more than just a backdrop.
Based on the latest mapping projects and trailer analysis, this island chain isn’t just a border for the map; it is a massive, traversable biome that could rival the size of entire maps from previous generations.
The Scale of the Leonida Keys
How big is this archipelago really? If the community-led GTA VI Mapping Project is accurate, the scale is staggering.
- Total Map Size: Estimates place the total Leonida map at approximately 2.5x to 2.7x larger than GTA V’s Los Santos.
- The Archipelago’s Role: Unlike the static ocean boundaries of GTA V, the Leonida Keys appear to stretch for miles, mimicking the real-life Florida Keys.
This isn’t just a single road with a few palm trees. Leaks suggest a complex network of islands (including named locations like East Key and Key Lento) connected by massive infrastructure. The drive from mainland Vice City to the southernmost point could take considerable real-time, offering the “road trip” vibe that was missing since San Andreas.
Traversing the Ocean Highway
The standout feature of this region is the infrastructure connecting the islands. The trailer offered glimpses of a bridge strikingly similar to the real-life Seven Mile Bridge.
In GTA V, bridges were mostly functional short-cuts. In the Leonida Keys, the bridges are likely to be gameplay arenas themselves—long stretches of highway suspended over crystal-clear water, perfect for high-speed chases or scenic cruising.
Note for Players: The distance between islands implies that air and sea travel will be just as vital as driving. Expect a heavier emphasis on boats and planes to navigate the “Gator Keys” efficiently.
Gameplay Potential: Smuggling & Survival
Why build such a massive archipelago? The size suggests deep gameplay integration. The Keys are historically known for two things: fishing and smuggling.
- Smuggling Corridors: With numerous small, unpopulated islands, the archipelago is the perfect playground for “Runner” missions—moving contraband by boat while dodging the coast guard.
- Underwater Exploration: The water clarity seen in the trailer hints at a fully detailed underwater biome. We expect coral reefs, shipwrecks, and diverse marine life (sharks, dolphins, and manatees) to make diving a viable activity.
- The RDR2 Influence: The wildlife mechanics from Red Dead Redemption 2 will likely evolve here. Fishing off a pier in the Keys won’t just be a mini-game; it could be a full-blown career path.
Comparison: Vice City (2002) vs. The Keys (2025)
To put the size in perspective, some mapping analysis suggests that the landmass of the Leonida Keys alone could be comparable to a significant portion of the original 2002 Vice City map.
While the 2002 game was a dense urban playground, the Keys offer a different kind of density: vast open waters dotted with detailed landmasses. It solves the “empty mountain” problem of GTA V by replacing unused hills with traversable ocean and distinct islands.
Conclusion
The Leonida Keys are shaping up to be a technical marvel. They represent a shift from “city-centric” maps to “state-wide” ecosystems. Whether you are planning to run cargo across the bridges or simply hunt for the mythical Skunk Ape on a remote island, the archipelago south of Vice City is ready to set a new standard for open-world scale.
What are you most excited to do in the Keys? Let us know in the comments!
Recommended External Links (Placeholders)
- Link to: Official Rockstar Games Trailer
- Link to: GTA VI Mapping Project Community Hub