GTA 6 Release Delayed Before Announcement

Rockstar Games has officially announced the release date for GTA 6, but fans will have to wait a bit longer as the game has been delayed until 2026. Dive into the details of this decision and its impact on the gaming industry's release schedules.

GTA 6 Release Date Announced

Coming on May 26, 2026

Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) stands as one of the most eagerly awaited titles in gaming history. Since the first trailer's release, fans have been on the edge of their seats. However, Rockstar Games has now confirmed that GTA 6 will not hit the shelves until May 26, 2026. This announcement deviates from the expectations set by Take-Two Interactive, who, during their Q3 2025 earnings call, hinted at a Fall 2025 launch.

On May 2, via a Twitter (X) post, Rockstar Games expressed their apologies for the delay and appreciated fans' patience. They emphasized their commitment to delivering a high-quality experience, stating, "We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve." More details are promised to be shared soon.

Take-Two Interactive Fully Supports Rockstar Games’ Decision

Take-Two Interactive stands firmly behind Rockstar Games' choice to extend the development timeline for GTA 6. In a statement released on their website on May 2, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick commented on the shift in the release schedule, saying, "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 decision aligns with Take-Two's earlier statements about their titles potentially releasing in close proximity. Last week, Gearbox Entertainment, another Take-Two subsidiary, announced that Borderlands 4 would launch two weeks earlier than initially planned. Although speculation arose that this move was in response to GTA 6's release window, Gearbox clarified that Borderlands 4's date change was not influenced by other games.

Take-Two remains steadfast in their commitment to 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, decided to launch one of their games on the same day as GTA 6. On May 2, Devolver Digital took to Twitter (X) to confirm that their yet-to-be-announced title will also release on May 26, 2026, with the bold statement, "You can’t escape us."

Back in March, Devolver announced their intention to release a game simultaneously with GTA 6. While they have not yet revealed which game will go head-to-head with GTA 6, they have a strong lineup of potential candidates, including sequels to Cult of the Lambs, Enter the Gungeon, Hotline Miami, or even a new IP.

Conversely, other developers and publishers are opting to avoid GTA 6's release window. The Game Business Show reported in March that several anonymous game executives are prepared to delay their own titles to steer clear of GTA 6's launch.

Despite the delay, fans remain enthusiastic about experiencing the next installment in Rockstar Games' iconic open-world series. Grand Theft Auto VI is now slated for release on May 26, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. For the latest updates on GTA 6, be sure to check out our comprehensive coverage below!