Rockstar Games has officially announced the release date for Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), but fans will have to wait until 2026. This article delves into the reasons behind the delay and its impact on other game launches.
GTA 6 Release Date Announced
Coming on May 26, 2026
Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) is one of the most eagerly awaited titles in gaming history, with fans buzzing since the first trailer was released. After years of speculation, Rockstar Games finally announced the release date on May 2 via a Twitter (X) post, setting GTA 6's launch for May 26, 2026. This announcement came as a surprise, especially following Take-Two Interactive's Q3 2025 earnings call where they expressed confidence in a Fall 2025 release.
Rockstar Games issued an apology for the delay, expressing gratitude for fans' patience and promising that the extra time would ensure a high-quality product. They stated, "We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve." More details are expected to be shared soon.
Take-Two Interactive Fully Supports Rockstar Games' Decision
Take-Two Interactive, the publisher behind Rockstar Games, has fully endorsed the decision to delay GTA 6. In a statement released on their website on May 2, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick emphasized the importance of allowing Rockstar the time needed to fulfill their creative vision. He said, "We support fully Rockstar Games taking additional time to realize their creative vision for Grand Theft Auto VI, which promises to be a groundbreaking, blockbuster entertainment experience that exceeds audience expectations."
This delay aligns with Take-Two's strategy of spacing out their game releases. Just last week, Gearbox Entertainment, another Take-Two subsidiary, announced that Borderlands 4 would launch two weeks earlier than initially planned. Although many speculated this move was influenced by GTA 6's release window, Gearbox clarified that Borderlands 4's date change was unrelated to other games. Take-Two remains committed to delivering excellence, stating, "As we continue to release our phenomenal pipeline, we expect to deliver a multi-year period of growth in our business and enhanced value for our shareholders."
Devolver Digital Remains Adamant in Releasing a Game Same Day with GTA 6
In a bold move, Devolver Digital, the publisher behind Cult of the Lambs, has decided to release one of their games on the same day as GTA 6. On May 2, Devolver Digital announced via Twitter (X) that their title would launch on May 26, 2026, stating, "You can’t escape us." This decision follows their earlier declaration in March that they would intentionally release a game on the same day and time as GTA 6. While the specific game remains undisclosed, potential candidates include sequels to popular titles like Cult of the Lambs, Enter the Gungeon, Hotline Miami, or even a new IP.
Contrastingly, other developers and publishers are planning to avoid clashing with GTA 6's release window. According to The Game Business Show in March, multiple anonymous game executives indicated they are prepared to delay their games to steer clear of GTA 6's launch.
Despite the delay, fans remain enthusiastic about diving into the next chapter of Rockstar Games' iconic open-world action-adventure series. Grand Theft Auto VI is now scheduled to release on May 26, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay tuned for more updates by checking out our related articles below!