GTA 6 Release Pushed To 2026: Rockstar Hits Pause Despite Repeated Fall 2025 Promises. Here's The New Release Date
Rockstar is no stranger to pushing back launch timelines. Will it be able to deliver this time, though?
Rockstar Games has officially delayed the release of Grand Theft Auto VI to May 2026, confirming growing speculation that the open-world behemoth wouldn't meet its expected 2025 debut. The announcement adds to Rockstar's track record of pushing back launch timelines, but that doesn't make the news any easier to digest for fans who have been eagerly awaiting the next instalment.
Even Ubisoft played it safe with the release of Assassin's Creed Shadows, delaying the much-awaited RPG by five months. The bet seemed to have paid off, as Shadows tasted both commercial and critical success upon its March release date.
Rockstar Asks For Patience
In a statement released alongside the announcement, Rockstar acknowledged fan disappointment while stressing its commitment to delivering a polished product.
"We are very sorry that this is later than you expected. The interest and excitement surrounding a new Grand Theft Auto has been truly humbling for our entire team. We want to thank you for your support and your patience as we work to finish the game," the studio said.
Grand Theft Auto VI is now set to release on May 26, 2026. https://t.co/YgaIn1cYc8 pic.twitter.com/cyeK7GM6Ob
— Rockstar Games (@RockstarGames) May 2, 2025
Rockstar further emphasised its quality-first approach, explaining that extra development time is necessary to meet its high standards.
"With every game we have released, the goal has always been to try and exceed your expectations, and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve."
Take-Two Backs The Move
Parent company Take-Two Interactive echoed Rockstar's sentiment, affirming full support for the delay. Addressing shareholders, CEO Strauss Zelnick highlighted the importance of giving developers the room to realise their vision.
"We fully support Rockstar Games taking additional time to realise their creative vision for Grand Theft Auto VI, which promises to be a groundbreaking, blockbuster entertainment experience that exceeds audience expectations," Zelnick stated.
He acknowledged the weight of the decision and the intense anticipation surrounding the game while maintaining optimism about the company's long-term trajectory.
"While we take the movement of our titles seriously and appreciate the vast and deep global anticipation for Grand Theft Auto VI, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence."
Market Impact Looms Large
The delay comes at a turbulent time for the gaming industry, already grappling with pricing shifts and global economic uncertainty. One research firm had anticipated GTA 6 as a 2025 sales driver, forecasting 40 million units in the first year alone — a figure now pushed a year further down the road. The game’s PC release is also expected later, offering another sales spike when that time comes.
The revised release date — May 26, 2026 — places GTA 6 in the crosshairs of a very different market environment. Whether that turns into a strategic advantage or a missed opportunity will likely become clearer when Take-Two releases its next earnings report on May 15.
For now, fans will have to wait a little longer for their next virtual crime spree.
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