Never cared much for GTA after the 3rd, but I've been contemplating on buying the fifth in recent times in a future sale, so this was an interesting read, thanks.

Yes, in many cases it's due to poor programming choices. CyberPunk 2077 loads in mere seconds in comparison (outside of hardware that is), then again, CDPR's games have never had much problem in that regard.

At the same time, it gives gamers time to prepare some snacks/drinks, and then a short visit to the bathroom while it's loading :)