GTA 6 Release Delayed Before Announcement

Rockstar Games has officially announced the release date for Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), but fans will have to wait until 2026. This decision impacts the launch timelines of other games, so let's dive into the details.

GTA 6 Release Date Announced

Coming on May 26, 2026

Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) is one of the most eagerly awaited games in recent history, with fans buzzing since the first trailer was released. After a long period of silence, Rockstar Games finally broke the news, setting a release date that has surprised many.

On May 2, via a post on X (formerly Twitter), Rockstar Games revealed that GTA 6 will launch on May 26, 2026. This announcement came as a shock, especially following Take-Two Interactive's Q3 2025 earnings call, where they confidently stated that GTA 6 would be released in the fall of 2025.

Rockstar Games issued an apology for the delay, expressing gratitude for fans' patience as they work to complete the game. 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 promised 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. On May 2, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick shared a statement on their website, emphasizing their support for the extended development time.

Zelnick 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 adjustment aligns with Take-Two's earlier comments about their titles potentially launching close to each other. Just last week, Gearbox Entertainment, also under Take-Two Interactive, announced that Borderlands 4 will launch two weeks earlier than planned. While some speculated this move was influenced by GTA 6’s new release window, Gearbox has denied any such connection.

Despite these shifts in release schedules, Take-Two remains committed to delivering top-quality games. They stated, "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

The delay of GTA 6 has led to an interesting move by Devolver Digital, the publisher of Cult of the Lambs. Rather than avoiding the GTA 6 launch date, Devolver Digital announced on May 2 via X that they will release a game on the same day, May 26, 2026. They boldly stated, "You can’t escape us."

Back in March, Devolver Digital had already declared their intention to release a game simultaneously with GTA 6. While they have yet to reveal which game will go head-to-head with GTA 6, possibilities include sequels to popular titles like Cult of the Lambs, Enter the Gungeon, Hotline Miami, or even a brand-new IP.

In contrast, other developers and publishers are opting to steer clear of GTA 6's release window. The Game Business Show reported in March that multiple anonymous game executives are prepared to delay their games to avoid clashing with GTA 6.

Despite the delay, fans remain enthusiastic about the upcoming chapter in Rockstar Games' iconic open-world action-adventure series. Grand Theft Auto VI is now slated for release on May 26, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay tuned for more updates by checking out our latest articles!