GTA 6 Release Delayed Before Announcement

Rockstar Games has officially announced the release date for Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), but fans will need to wait longer than expected, with the game now set to launch on May 26, 2026. This announcement comes as a surprise, especially following Take-Two Interactive's earlier confidence that GTA 6 would be released in the Fall of 2025. Let's delve into the reasons behind this delay and explore its impact on other game releases.

Coming on May 26, 2026

Since the first trailer of GTA 6, fans have been eagerly anticipating its release. The long silence was broken when Rockstar Games took to Twitter (X) on May 2 to announce that GTA 6 will hit the shelves on May 26, 2026. This delay was accompanied by an apology from Rockstar Games, expressing gratitude for the fans' patience and emphasizing the need for extra time to ensure the game meets the high standards expected by their audience. They promised more details would be shared soon.

Take-Two Interactive Fully Supports Rockstar Games’ Decision

Take-Two Interactive, the publisher behind Rockstar Games, fully supports the decision to delay GTA 6. On May 2, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick released a statement on their website, affirming their backing for Rockstar's need for additional time. Zelnick stated, "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 broader strategy, as evidenced by Gearbox Entertainment's announcement last week that Borderlands 4 will launch two weeks earlier. While some speculated this move was influenced by GTA 6’s release window, Gearbox has clarified that their decision was independent. Take-Two remains committed to excellence, aiming to deliver growth and enhanced value for shareholders over the coming years.

Devolver Digital Remains Adamant in Releasing a Game Same Day with GTA 6

Interestingly, the delay of GTA 6 has prompted a bold move from Devolver Digital, the publisher of Cult of the Lambs. On May 2, Devolver announced via Twitter (X) that they will release a new game on the same day as GTA 6, May 26, 2026, stating, "You can’t escape us." Back in March, Devolver had already declared their intention to release a game simultaneously with GTA 6, though the specific title remains a mystery. They have a range of potential candidates, including sequels to popular titles like Cult of the Lambs, Enter the Gungeon, and Hotline Miami, or even an entirely new IP.

In contrast, other developers and publishers are opting to avoid GTA 6's release window. According to The Game Business Show in March, numerous anonymous game executives expressed readiness to delay their games to steer clear of GTA 6's launch.

Despite the delay, excitement for GTA 6 remains high among fans, eager to experience the next installment in Rockstar Games' iconic open-world action-adventure series. Grand Theft Auto VI is now scheduled for release on May 26, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated game.