Analysts Flag Tonemapping Issues in GTA 6 Launch Trailer
HDR experts Filippo Tarpini and MusaRenoDX say the GTA 6 trailer shows hue shifts and no extra highlight detail, pointing to a possible SDR-to-HDR conversion.
HDR and tonemapping expert Filippo Tarpini and analyst MusaRenoDX published separate analyses of the GTA 6 launch trailer on October 16, 2026, finding tonemapping issues in the footage, according to wccftech.com.
Tarpini, who analyzed the trailer's tonemapping in a thread on X, identified hue shifts in which bright blue turns purple, along with banding around pool lights. He suggested Rockstar may be using the AgX tonemapper, noting that there is no official HDR implementation of AgX.
MusaRenoDX examined the HDR footage and believes inverse tonemapping is being used for HDR, citing no extra detail in the highlights.
The findings point to a possible cheaper SDR-to-HDR upgrade rather than a native HDR presentation, based on the two analysts' assessments of the trailer.
Older tonemapping choices
GTA 5 and RDR2 used the Hable tonemapper, which along with ACES dominated the PS4 generation. In December 2025, an exclusive interview discussed the state of HDR gaming, particularly on PC.
Quick answers
What issues did analysts find in the GTA 6 launch trailer?
Filippo Tarpini identified hue shifts, such as bright blue turning purple, and banding around pool lights. MusaRenoDX cited no extra detail in highlights.
What tonemapper might Rockstar be using in GTA 6?
Tarpini suggested Rockstar may be using the AgX tonemapper, noting there is no official HDR implementation of AgX.
When was the GTA 6 launch trailer published?
The GTA 6 launch trailer was published on October 15, 2026.